best places visit south carolina

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Best places to visit in south carolina.

With good-looking cities and towns, sandy beaches and Lowcountry locales, South Carolina is home to spellbinding destinations that promise carefree vacations. From the shores of Hilton Head Island to Charleston's historic district, the Palmetto State's timeless appeal can make it difficult to narrow down vacation plans. To help you make decisions, U.S. News considered cultural offerings, cuisine, the friendliness of locals and more to rank this list of the best places to visit in South Carolina. Read below to map out your trip, and be sure to vote for destinations you love to help us with next year's list.

Charleston, SC

Hilton head, kiawah island, greenville, sc, georgetown, sc, myrtle beach, huntington beach state park, congaree national park, caesars head state park.

The charms of this coastal city can't be overstated, and travelers from across the country have taken notice. Civil War history buffs can tour Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor, savvy Instagrammers can take advantage of photo ops along The Battery and Rainbow Row, and sun seekers can flock to Folly Beach and other nearby stretches of sand. Plus, everyone will enjoy sampling Charleston's world-class Southern cuisine, including staples like shrimp and grits, roasted oysters and she-crab soup.

Located about 100 miles southwest of Charleston, Hilton Head Island caters to travelers seeking a slow-paced vacation. Much less developed than other beach options like Myrtle Beach and North Carolina's Outer Banks, Hilton Head Island boasts 12-plus miles of pristine shoreline. Coligny Beach Park offers a wealth of facilities, such as adjacent shops and restaurants, but those looking for less-crowded sands should seek out the beach access point at Alder Lane. What's more, Hilton Head has earned the nickname "Golf Island" for its dozens of championship courses.

With 10 miles of undisturbed beaches, renowned golf courses and top-notch resorts , Kiawah Island has all the essentials for a serene (albeit costly) beach vacation. Kiawah Island (located about 30 miles southwest of Charleston) features smooth beaches that are great for biking, lounging and spotting bottlenose dolphins and sea turtles. Meanwhile, novice golfers can attend clinics at a learning center, while pros can take on the challenging Ocean Course (notorious for its wind). Come mealtime, visitors can find everything from ice cream parlors to upscale dining at the island's resorts or the picture-perfect Freshfields Village.

Beaufort's quaint oak tree-lined streets and Civil War-era homes provide a glimpse into the small town's antebellum days. Sign up for a walking or horse-drawn carriage tour to take in your surroundings, then visit the Beaufort History Museum to learn more about the town's past. You'll also want to check out Penn Center on the nearby St. Helena Island to educate yourself about Gullah culture. Once you've gotten your fill of history, head to the Beaufort River to kayak or paddleboard, or make your way to the Port Royal Cypress Wetlands and Rookery for a couple of hours of bird-watching.

Although Greenville doesn’t receive throngs of visitors like other South Carolina destinations, it's one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, meaning it may not remain a hidden gem for much longer. Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greenville has earned a reputation as a hub for outdoor activities. Head to Falls Park on the Reedy to walk across its impressive Liberty Bridge or bike the 28-mile Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail. In town, catch a show at the Peace Center, stroll down Main Street or mingle with friendly locals at a brewery.

This small town between Charleston and Myrtle Beach packs in a lot of history. Get the lay of the land with a tram tour in the historic district, where you'll find attractions that tell disparate stories of life before the Civil War, from Georgian mansions like the Kaminski House Museum to The Rice Museum, which details Georgetown's impactful rice plantation economy. A boat tour can also take you past plantations like Hopsewee Plantation and Hobcaw Barony, which call attention to Native American and Gullah culture and the slave experience. Back in town, the Harborwalk is worth a stroll for its restaurants, shops and art galleries. 

Myrtle Beach, one of the most iconic East Coast beach destinations , is especially popular with families thanks to its wealth of kid-friendly attractions (think: miniature golf courses and Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach). But visitors of all ages will enjoy spending time by the water. Myrtle Beach's 60-mile stretch of coastline is ideal for relaxing, and the gentle water makes it an excellent place to swim, fish, paddleboard and kayak. To get a dose of nature without rubbing elbows with hordes of tourists, travelers can head to Myrtle Beach State Park, which offers equestrian trails, playgrounds, a campground and a fishing pier.

Situated less than 17 miles southwest of Myrtle Beach, Huntington Beach State Park offers an escape from the busyness of South Carolina's better-known beaches. You can swim, fish and go boating at its 3-mile-long undeveloped beach. Additionally, more than 300 bird species call this park home; walk along Huntington Beach's two nature trails to access some of its best places for bird-watching (you may also spot some alligators). Don't forget to save time for a guided tour of Moorish-style Atalaya Castle and a visit to Brookgreen Gardens to marvel at its flowers and sculptures.

Central South Carolina's Congaree National Park is home to North America's largest stretch of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest, making it an excellent place to go hiking. Congaree boasts more than 27 miles of trails and boardwalks suitable for all skill levels, including the shorter Boardwalk Loop Trail and longer paths like the Weston Lake Trail and the Oakridge Trail that are havens for birds, wild turkeys and deer. When you're not exploring its beautiful forest, spend a few hours fishing in Congaree National Park's lakes or canoeing or kayaking down Cedar Creek.

Caesars Head State Park stuns visitors with an easily accessible overlook that grants sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Escarpment's 2,000-foot drop. This outcropping is just the starting point for exploring the park, which sits roughly 30 miles northwest of Greenville on the North Carolina-South Carolina border. Sixty-plus miles of trails lead to sights like the Devil's Kitchen, where hikers can clamber between narrow walls of a mountain that's been split in two, and Raven Cliff Falls, which rewards those who complete the 2-mile trail with a 420-foot cascade. Fishing and bird-watching (particularly during the fall hawk migration) are also popular things to do.

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Pawleys Island

Columbia, SC

Florence, SC

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17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in South Carolina

Written by Becca Blond and Bryan Dearsley Updated Mar 1, 2024

Whether you are helping the kids build sandcastles on Myrtle Beach, dining on delectable Lowcountry cooking in charming Charleston, or playing a round of golf on a championship course in Hilton Head or Kiawah Island, South Carolina has a bevy of vacation-worthy attractions.

Home to 2,876 miles of tidal coastline, including 34 barrier islands, South Carolina has no shortage of water and beach-focused activities, including some of the best deep-sea fishing you'll find in the South.

Most of South Carolina's beachfront is on its barrier islands , which are connected to the mainland by bridges. One exception is Daufuskie Island, which can only be accessed by boat, and offers a serene getaway from the crowds on Hilton Head.

No first-time visit to South Carolina is complete without seeing Charleston, its mesmerizing port city. The Holy City's history dates back to the 1700s, and while parts of it are dark, there is no denying modern Charleston is a charming destination. It is easy to lose track of time wandering its cobblestone streets past graceful old mansions and experiencing its buzzy food scene.

While most travelers to South Carolina stick to its coastline, head inland for natural beauty, quaint small towns, and the state capital, Columbia. The northwest portion of the state, known as the Upstate, boasts scores of cascading waterfalls and major lakes with opportunities for boating, fishing, and water skiing.

Whatever your interests, you'll find plenty of things to do in this list of the top tourist attractions and places to visit in South Carolina.

1. Charleston's Historic District

2. myrtle beach, 3. hilton head island, 4. daufuskie island, 5. fort sumter and charleston harbor, 6. jocassee gorges and devils fork state park, 7. uss yorktown and patriots point, mount pleasant, 8. south carolina plantation gardens, 9. congaree national park, hopkins, 10. watch wildlife at huntington beach state park, murrells inlet, 11. south carolina state museum, columbia, 12. brookgreen gardens, murrells inlet, 13. deep sea fishing, 14. riverbanks zoo and garden, columbia, 15. caesars head state park, 16. columbia museum of art, 17. edventure, columbia.

Immerse yourself in the gracious atmosphere of the antebellum south in Charleston, where more than 1400 historic homes, churches, and other buildings line the streets. A carriage ride will give you an overview and a little history as well, or you can join a walking tour that includes a peek into some of them.

You can also take a guided tour of several historic homes, including the Aiken-Rhett House and the 1808 Nathaniel Russell House . Both hold priceless collections of fine and decorative arts.

Exhibits at the Old Exchange Building and Old Slave Mart Museum reveal more about the city and its long, complicated history. It is also worth paying a visit to the Charleston City Market to watch "basket ladies" weave sweetgrass baskets, a long-cherished tradition here.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Charleston, SC

One of the most popular things to do in South Carolina in the summer is to retreat to the miles of pristine sands that line the coast at Myrtle Beach. As appealing as the beaches themselves are the many traditional seaside pleasures to choose from here. The Carolina Opry produces musical shows, and the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel takes visitors on 10-minute rides above the beach and boardwalk.

Broadway at the Beach is the state's largest entertainment and shopping venue, with rides, mini golf, Ripley's Aquarium , movies, specialty shops, dining, and other attractions in a pedestrian-only area around Lake Broadway. Families love the slides, splash rides, and swimming pools at water parks and at major hotels.

Whether you like fishing or not, you'll also want to add Apache Pier to your list of places to visit in Myrtle Beach. Close to 1,200 feet in length, it's the East Coast's longest wooden pier, and is a popular fishing spot. For those just wanting to walk its entirety, grab a fresh fish sandwich from Croakers and soak in the spectacular views back over Myrtle Beach. Live music is provided every night in summer, and there's a fun arcade for the kids to enjoy.

• Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Myrtle Beach

While Hilton Head Island doesn't have the glamorous stage shows of the Grand Strand in Myrtle Beach, this low-country beach town offers laid-back relaxation and smaller crowds. You'll find plenty of fun things to do here , including great shopping, restaurants, and golf courses, and, of course, the beautiful wide sandy beaches.

One of the best places in South Carolina for bicycling, Hilton Head has miles of flat, well-marked bicycling trails, with great scenery and signage to point out landmarks and interesting facts. At low tide, you can even ride along the beaches, as most bike rental companies now offer bikes with extra wide tires that handle nicely on the firm, packed sand.

In some places, particularly along the shores of the Intracoastal Waterway, you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of dolphins playing on the surf not too far from you. Wildlife watchers can also spot rare and common marine and birdlife up close at the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge .

Be sure to also pay a visit to the Sea Pines Resort area on the island's south end. Of particular interest here is Harbour Town, notable for its marina and famous lighthouse. Be sure to pay the modest admission, it's worth it for the superb water views over to Dafuskie Island.

It is worth taking a day trip from Hilton Head to Daufuskie Island. Accessible only by boat and passenger ferry , it looks as if time stopped moving here. To explore the island on your own, rent a golf cart. There are only a few paved roads on the island, but the carts can drive down the tree-canopied dirt roads.

Pay a visit to the Iron Fish Gallery & Studio , which is where acclaimed coastal sculptor Chase Allen displays his creations. The sculptures have become collector's items worldwide and can only be purchased on Daufuskie Island.

There is a 3-mile-long beach that is way less crowded than other area beaches. Even in the middle of the tourist season, you will only find a few hundred people along it (as opposed to thousands in Myrtle Beach or Hilton Head).

Here you will find Tour Daufuskie , which rents kayaks and paddle boards and also runs organized tours on both. Trips either take you into the ocean or down the island's rivers and saltwater creeks. Horseback riding along the beach is a popular activity. The Haig Point Equestrian Center runs excursions.

For more cultural enrichment, pay a visit to the Daufuskie Island Museum , which tells the story of Native American tribes from the region. The Rob Kennedy Historical Trail , with more than 20 landmarks, is also worth a stroll.

The attack on Fort Sumter, the federal fort guarding Charleston Harbor, by Confederate forces on April 12, 1861, began the American Civil War. The excellent National Park Rangers' interpretations bring those events vividly to life and set the stage for a better understanding of Civil War history.

You can visit the island and the well-preserved ruins of the fort by boat from the Visitor Education Center at Liberty Square, or from Patriots Point. Or you can get good views of the fort from a 90-minute tour on a sightseeing boat that takes you along the Cooper River to Fort Sumter National Monument.

The tour is fully narrated to provide historical background for Charleston's role in the Civil War and other eras of its history. It also gives good views of other forts, the Civil War prison at Pinckney Castle, the USS Yorktown , and the Ravenel Bridge.

Official site: www.nps.gov/fosu/index.htm

South Carolina's northwest corner, known as Upstate, sits in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is filled with outdoor attractions. Here you will find the breathtaking Jocassee Gorges, the region's crown natural jewel. It is a series of steep rock walls that send dozens of mountain rivers down waterfalls into the giant 7,5000 Lake Jocassee in Devils Fork State Park.

Surrounded by pines and lush green hardwood forests, Lake Jocassee is a crystal-clear, deep-water reservoir. You can rent canoes, kayaks, and motorboats from one of many outfitters around the lakeshore. Guided pontoon boat tours are also offered and these stop at many of the waterfalls around the lake. If you are an angler, this lake is famed for its trophy-size fish. You'll find many bass and trout species here.

The Jocassee Gorges have the highest number of waterfalls in the eastern U.S. And with more than 75 inches of precipitation annually, this 50,000-acre wilderness area is also the only temperate rainforest east of the Rocky Mountains.

One of the most impressive waterfalls in this area is Whitewater Falls , on the state line with North Carolina. The falls are the tallest cascades east of the Rocky Mountains and begin their 811-foot drop in North Carolina and land in South Carolina.

At Patriots Point, on the other side of the harbor from Charleston's Historic District, you can tour the historic Essex-class aircraft carrier USS Yorktown . Built in 1943, it was the tenth aircraft carrier to serve in the United States Navy, and earned 11 battle stars for service in World War II, later adding five battle stars for service in Vietnam. The USS Yorktown also "starred" in the 1944 documentary film, The Fighting Lady .

More recently, in 1968, the USS Yorktown commanded worldwide attention for recovering the Apollo 8 astronauts. The vessel was retired to Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum in 1975, joining submarines and other maritime exhibits that you can tour.

Address: 40 Patriots Point Road, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina

Official site: www.patriotspoint.org

Many of the state's 2,000-plus plantations are open to visitors, and those around Charleston are noted especially for their outstanding gardens. Magnolia Plantation is in America's oldest publicly accessed gardens, begun in the early 1700s and first opened to visitors in 1870. They are unique as America's last grand Romantic-style garden. Middleton Place sits above America's oldest landscaped gardens; the house is fully furnished in original style.

Boone Hall Plantation in nearby Mt. Pleasant is one of the nation's oldest plantations still operating as a working farm, and is best known for its picturesque, three-quarter-mile Avenue of Oaks. You get a rare glimpse of original 18th-century craftsmanship in the ornamental details of the interior of Drayton Hall , which is the oldest unrestored plantation house in America that's open for tours.

Along with showing how the owners and their families lived, these plantations now include exhibits, tours, and programs on the lives of the enslaved people who made the plantation lifestyle possible during the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries.

Guided tours of Middleton Place include discussions not only about the Middleton family, but also the enslaved people and freedmen who served them. Active archaeological studies at Drayton Hall continue to recover artifacts that provide insight into these undocumented lives.

Magnolia's Cabin Project preserves former slave dwellings that serve as the focal point for a 45-minute program on African-American history, highlighting not only the lives of enslaved people, but their later role in maintaining and preserving the estate's magnificent gardens. Boone Hall features a live presentation of the unique Gullah culture developed by African slaves, where descendants of the Gullah people tell the history of this culture through storytelling and song.

An easy 30-minute drive south of Columbia, Congaree National Park covers more than 26,000 acres and is a popular destination for those who enjoy the great outdoors in South Carolina. Home to the USA's largest concentration of tall bottomland old-growth forest, this incredibly scenic area is also one of the country's prime wilderness areas, with over half the park considered an unspoiled habitat that's home to abundant wildlife.

It's also notable for having been designated a UNESCO biosphere reserve . Little surprise, then, that the park is home to an abundance of ecologically important flora and fauna. Wildlife spotters can expect to see everything from bobcats to deer, as well as armadillos and plenty of amphibians.

There's plenty of other fun to be had here, too. Outdoor adventures include extensive hiking trails, kayaking, and canoeing, and guided interpretive experiences.

Address: 100 National Park Road, Hopkins, South Carolina

Official site: www.nps.gov/cong/index.htm

With more than 300 different species of birds found in the park, Huntington Beach is considered the best birding location in South Carolina.

But birds are not the only attraction for tourists who love wildlife. You can usually spot alligators at the park's freshwater lake, and a wide variety of park programming offers chances to observe loggerhead turtles and other endangered species, as well as introduce some of the rare local plants.

Art lovers enjoy the juried Atalaya Arts and Crafts Festival held every September in the former winter residence of Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington. The philanthropist and sculptor are also responsible for the neighboring Brookgreen Gardens .

Address: 16148 Ocean Hwy, Murrells Inlet, South Carolina

Official site: www.southcarolinaparks.com/huntingtonbeach/introduction.aspx

The South Carolina State Museum is the state's largest such facility. This popular attraction features four floors of exhibits covering South Carolina's natural history, art, culture, science, and technology.

Many of the educational exhibits are hands-on, which makes the museum especially engaging for young visitors. The museum also features a 4-D interactive science theater, a planetarium, and an ever-changing roster of special exhibits.

Address: 301 Gervais Street, Columbia, South Carolina

Official site: http://scmuseum.org

Set on more than 9,000 acres of former rice plantations south of Myrtle Beach, Brookgreen Gardens combines a sculpture garden, the Lowcountry Zoo , and a wildlife preserve featuring multiple ecosystems. The sculpture is displayed throughout an entire series of themed gardens, which include the Kitchen Garden, Palmetto Garden, and a children's garden.

There's also a terrace garden filled with perennials, roses, and flowering shrubs. The Live Oak Allée of 250-year-old trees dates from plantation days in the early 1700s. Throughout the gardens and in three galleries are displayed more than 2,000 works by 430 artists, the country's largest and most comprehensive collection of American figurative sculpture.

The gardens were founded by Archer Huntington and his wife, the noted sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington, in 1932 and was the first public sculpture garden in America. Each December, they are transformed into a magical world of colored lights during the Night of a Thousand Candles.

Address: 1931 Brookgreen Drive, Murrells Inlet, South Carolina

Official site: www.brookgreen.org

From April through November, South Carolina is a prime destination for deep sea fishing, when avid anglers take to the water in a quest for sailfish, amberjack, cobia, giant blue marlin, barracuda, and other game species.

Unique to the state's waters are the many artificial reefs, more than 40 of which are located off its 3,000 miles of tidal shoreline. Built from scrap metal, including discarded equipment, barges, concrete bridges, and military vehicles, the underwater structures create a habitat for a variety of marine species.

Three coastal areas are especially prime for fishing. The sea near Myrtle Beach has 18 artificial reefs and eight fishing piers, including Apache Pier, the longest wooden fishing pier on the East Coast.

Charleston is the best departure point for the central coast waters, where 13 artificial reefs furnish habitat for several species, including blue marlin. Convenient departure points for the southern coastal waters are Beaufort and Hilton Head Island .

All these regions have plenty of charter companies and equipment rentals, as well as launch sites for private boats; if you plan to use charter services, be sure to book early, as South Carolina's potential for deep sea fishing adventures is no secret.

Read More: Best Places for Deep Sea Fishing in South Carolina

As if kangaroo and koala joeys weren't enough, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is home to more than 2,000 other animals, representing more than 350 species. The two-acre African Plains exhibit reproduces an African savanna, where you can see giraffes, ostriches, and zebras along with African lions and baboons in their own separate natural habitats.

The Ndoki Forest area is a sanctuary for gorillas, elephants, and meerkats. Siberian tigers and Komodo dragons, among other species, represent Asia, while North American species include grizzly bears and California sea lions. The zoo includes a botanical garden and ziplines.

Address: 500 Wildlife Pkwy, Columbia, South Carolina

Official site: www.riverbanks.org/

Caesars Head State Park in Cleveland encompasses the heights of the Blue Ridge Escarpment and is filled with photo ops. The most impressive is from The Overlook , with its breathtaking view of Table Rock . The Raven Cliff Falls Trail leads to South Carolina's tallest waterfall , and the Jones Gap Trail leads to a series of swimming holes.

The escarpment attracts hawks on their migratory route to South America, and Caesar's Head Hawk Site is a count site along the Atlantic Flyway. There are fishing rivers in the park, and for treasure-hunting enthusiasts, several geocaches are hidden, to be located by GPS.

Address: 8155 Geer Hwy, Cleveland, South Carolina

Official site: www.southcarolinaparks.com/caesarshead/introduction.aspx

Art lovers traveling to South Carolina should be sure to include the Columbia Museum of Art on their travel itinerary. Consisting of over 25 galleries showcasing regional, national, and international artworks, it's a delightful way to spend a few hours.

Highlights include examples from the Baroque and Renaissance periods, along with works by a number of other European Masters. There's also an extensive collection of artworks by American artists, as well as decorative and furniture pieces.

Guided tours are available, as well as a great series of workshops and other programming.

Address: 1515 Main Street, Columbia, South Carolina

Official site: www.columbiamuseum.org

This one's strictly for the kids. The EdVenture Children's Museum is a fun, state-of-the-art attraction that places the emphasis entirely on making learning fun. And the fun here is very much hands-on, from the outdoor activities, including a full-scale airplane, to the magical indoor play areas.

Highlights include an area dedicated to pets, a science and invention lab, plenty of Lego blocks to play with, as well as fun exhibits, including a fire engine and grocery store. A café is also located on-site.

Address: 211 Gervais Street, Columbia, South Carolina

Official site: www.edventure.org

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Where to Go in South Carolina : If you're going to be here in summer, spend some time finding the most beautiful beaches in the state, as well as the best resorts in South Carolina. And don't overlook the many things to do in South Carolina's lovely small towns .

Places to Visit near South Carolina : South of Charleston, traveling through the Low Country leads into Georgia , where you will not want to miss romantic Savannah , with its lovely parks and streets of antebellum homes.

More on South Carolina

40 Best Things To Do & Places To Visit In South Carolina

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: April 24, 2021  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

South Carolina is a state steeped in history.

It was once the state with the most slave trade activity, was the first to secede from the Union, and was the eighth in ratifying the U.S. Constitution.

Today, many of the famous places from its history remain, from plantations to jailhouses and from sites-turned-museums to ruins and forts.

Many of its built-up cities are immensely popular with guests, especially Charleston , Greenville , Columbia , and Florence.

South Carolina is also well-known as a vacation spot for tourists.

It has gorgeous coastlines, verdant wooded areas and parks, golf courses and recreation spots, museums, and many historic points of interest along the way.

Though it’s one of America’s smaller states, it’s still packed with options for exploration and enjoyment.

To help you decide where to visit and where to go, here are our picks for the 40 best things to do and places to visit in South Carolina.

Table of Contents

1. South Carolina State Museum

Nolichuckyjake / Shutterstock

The South Carolina State Museum sits in what was once the Columbia Mills Building of downtown Columbia, the world’s first electric mill for textiles.

It is a state-of-the-art location packed with showcases and displays on natural history, art, science, culture, history, modern lifestyle, and technology of the region.

Opened in 1988, it’s also the state’s biggest museum, a fitting title given its name, and retains much of its original textile mill features.

This museum is home to four exhibit floors that showcase both permanent and temporary displays.

There are four categories of displays – cultural history, natural history, art, and science and technology – that allow you to view replicas, artifacts, and local art in turn.

Some of the most fun and popular exhibits are the megalodon shark sculpture and a life-sized replica of the Best Friend of Charleston, or the first entirely American-built locomotive.

Temporary exhibits are similarly state-themed, with exhibits and pop culture showcases of all varieties.

Modern exhibit styles mean that many displays come with multimedia or interactive information.

There is also a 4D theater fitted with air blasts, vibrating seats, and even leg ticklers.

An observatory, bookstore, digital dome planetarium, and a gift shop add to the many other ways to enjoy one of the main South Carolina attractions!

Address: 301 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201, United States

2. Charleston Historic District

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for vacation spots in South Carolina, a great place to start is in Charleston Historic District .

It is so named for being one of the city’s earliest established districts – and yet it remains one of its busiest today!

More than 1400 different buildings, including churches and “single house” homes, that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries make up the area.

The atmosphere is delightfully relaxed and there’s something charming about the antebellum-era whimsy that remains.

As a National Historic Landmark, the neighborhood is teeming with attractions that make up many of the key places to visit in South Carolina.

A carriage ride can bring you around and clue you in to the most tourist-worthy spots while teaching you a little about the district’s history.

Walking streets make sightseeing easy, which is good since there’s so much to do that it’ll take up all your time this weekend!

Among the historic structures to tour in Charleston’s Historic District are the 1808 Nathaniel Russell House, St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, the Cathedral of St. Luke and St. Paul, the Charleston County Courthouse, the Old Exchange Building, and the Aiken-Rhett House.

You can also simply wander Meeting Street, Broad Street, and King Street to enjoy a merging of history with modern but quaint shops and eateries.

3. Fort Sumter National Monument

Scott Alan Ritchie / Shutterstock

The Fort Sumter National Monument is one of the best tourist attractions in South Carolina for history buffs and war academics alike.

It is made up of two locations: the fort itself and a special Visitor Education Center where you can learn more about the historic monument.

It is located on an island and requires a half-hour ride on a boat to get to.

Arranging for a ride a day in advance is required, or you can use a personal vessel and anchor it on the fort’s western side.

Fort Sumter in Charleston is the location where the very first shot was fired in the Civil War, in the year 1861.

The National Monument, as it is now preserved, allows you to take a walking tour and relive this significant point in the fight for civil rights in America.

Many parts of the monument are only accessible via stairs, but they’re rewarding to climb to.

Caverns still hold cannons from the Civil War era and the Visitor Center provides detailed information about the fort’s importance as well as a number of artifacts.

Address: Charleston, Columbia, SC 29412, United States

4. Huntington Beach State Park

MarynaG / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for fun things to do in South Carolina that involve nature and the great outdoors, look no further than Huntington Beach State Park .

It is a stunning coastal natural preserve that is most famous as a birding and bird-watching location.

It covers 3 miles of a land stretch and hosts many nature programs.

More than 300 different bird species can be seen at Huntington Beach State Park.

There is also a freshwater lake where you can spot alligators, programs where you can get up-close with endangered species like loggerhead turtles, and a Nature Center that showcases live animals and historical information.

You can even head out on the trails to look at the rare local flora!

If nature-focused attractions aren’t your thing, you can still enjoy a unique part of South Carolina’s history by checking out the Atalaya Castle, which is where the Huntingtons themselves lived.

The Atalaya Visitor Center hosts interesting exhibits and the “castle” home is available to tour and relive.

And, of course, the beach area is perfect for rest and relaxation!

Finally, in September, you can go up to the Atalaya Castle to attend to Atalaya Arts and Crafts Festival.

Address: 16148 Ocean Hwy, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576, United States

5. Middleton Place

meunierd / Shutterstock

Middleton Place is the site of the oldest landscaped gardens in the United States, so it’s no wonder that this is one of the top 10 sites in South Carolina.

A former plantation, it began operations in 1755 and is an authentic glimpse into the 18th and 19th-century life on these 65 acres of beautiful gardens.

Middleton Place is also a National Historic Landmark, though only one of the original mansion’s buildings remains standing.

That portion is packed with many of its initial, genuine furniture and is a museum of sorts that you can tour.

Portraits, porcelain, and other rarities make for interesting finds.

The gardens are in a traditional French style and filled with camellias, magnolias, azaleas, and other stunning flowers.

Carriage tours are available to bring you around the gorgeous grounds.

You can also check out the Plantation Stableyards, which house heritage-bred animals, and the Middle Place Restaurant, which serves delicious meals.

Address: 4300 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, United States

6. Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

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Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum is one of the most fascinating things to do in SC, especially if you love history, the army and its components, and water vessels of all sorts.

Located in Charleston Harbor of South Carolina, it is home to an impressive three different museum ships that you can tour, with two of them being the USS Clamagore and the USS Laffey.

The most famous of the ships at the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum is the USS Yorktown, an aircraft carrier of Essex class that was completed in 1943.

It was the US Navy’s tenth aircraft carrier and, in World War II, earned 11 battle stars before earning five more in the Vietnam War.

It is also the starring set of The Fighting Lady, a documentary from 1944.

In 1968, the USS Yorktown aided in the retrieval of astronauts from the Apollo 8 mission.

In 1975, it was retired to the museum where it now rests.

The USS Yorktown is now the site of 25 displayed aircraft and a Medal of Honor museum, among other exhibits.

Meanwhile, the USS Clamagore is a soon-to-be artificial reef and is actually a submarine.

The USS Laffey continues further the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum’s theme of showcasing decommissioned naval ships and maritime history.

All three ships can be walked through and explored in fun self-guided or docent-led tours.

The Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum also has exhibits onshore.

This includes a Civil War cannon, two helicopters, and interactive displays of Vietnam War and World War II artifacts.

You can also eat at the snack shack or cafe and stop by the gift shop for souvenirs before you leave!

Address: 40 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, United States

7. Brookgreen Gardens

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As far as things to see go, the Brookgreen Gardens are certainly one of the places of interest in South Carolina that you shouldn’t miss.

The name “gardens” may evoke the idea of a small area, but it’s actually a mass of land stretching across 9,100 acres with many interesting places to check out within.

The Brookgreen Gardens are award-winning and famous for housing more than 2,000 figurative sculptures, making it the most comprehensive and biggest collection of its kind in America.

More than 430 different artists have their works displayed here, which is no surprise considering that Anna Hyatt Huntington, a notable sculptor, was one of the founders of the gardens in 1932.

It was also the country’s first public garden of sculptures.

Interestingly, the grounds of the Brookgreen Gardens were once four different rice plantations.

Sculptures are arranged throughout a number of different themed areas, including the Palmetto Garden, Kitchen Garden, a terrace garden, and even a children’s garden.

If you’re here at the right time, you may be able to catch the Nights of a Thousand Candles event, which happens once a year and involves the garden’s full decoration with candles and lights.

Address: 1931 Brookgreen Garden Dr, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576, United States

8. Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

The Magnolia Plantation & Gardens are a must-see for any fun-loving nature enthusiast.

Found in Ashley River, Charleston County, South Carolina, the plantation was established in the 1670s by the rich and renowned Drayton Family.

In 1870, it opened to the public and became America’s first public garden.

Despite its age, it has been tended to by the same family, which also owns it, for the last three centuries and beyond!

With its age, a lot of the Magnolia Plantation & Gardens predate even the Civil War, providing an interesting glimpse into the common flora of that time – magnolias especially!

The romantic atmosphere is further aided by the fact that the blooms remain all through the year, with camellias in winter and azaleas in spring.

Tours are varied with different themes, with the most popular one being “From Slavery to Freedom: The Magnolia Cabin Project Tour”.

If you’d like, you can also tour the house of the Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, which, while less ornate than common plantation homes, is spectacularly beautiful nonetheless.

Still, few can deny that the true draw is the gardens themselves.

Wildlife is teeming about, with the Audubon Swamp Garden boasting turtles, otters, and even gators, and the waterfowl refuge being packed with local birds.

A horticultural maze, multiple trails, and a nature center also provide fantastic insights into the gardens.

Address: 3550 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, United States

9. Caesars Head State Park

Caesars Head State Park is one of the best places to go and one of the best things to do in South Carolina for sightseeing and natural atmospheres.

It is situated in Cleveland, South Carolina, and spans 13,000 acres of gorgeous, lush green land with views that encompass the Carolinas and Georgia .

It’s also packed with photo ops, largely thanks to its Blue Ridge Escarpment portions within.

At Caesars Head State Park, you’ll find mountain landscapes and an elevation of more than 3,200 feet.

Wildlife, such as black bears, falcons, and hawks, are commonplace.

Among the things you can enjoy here are swimming at the swimming holes of the Jones Gap Trail, hiking to the state’s tallest waterfall known as the Raven Cliff Falls, and the Overlook viewpoint that provides majestic panoramas of Table Rock.

You’ll also find fishing rivers, geocaches for treasure hunting, and the Foothills Trail that covers 77 miles into the next state park!

While you’re here, don’t forget to check out Devils Kitchen.

It is made up of a gneiss rock formation and earned its name due to a legend stating that the devil himself carved the unique geological feature.

The stairs of Devil’s Kitchen descend into the very small gap in the rocks that was made due to water freezing and expanding on the mountain thousands of years prior.

Address: 8155 Geer Hwy, Cleveland, SC 29635, United States

10. Riverbanks Zoo and Garden

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The Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is a fantastic and fun option for what to do with kids or family in South Carolina.

Covering 170 acres of land, it is home to an impressive number of over 2,000 different animals across 8 uniquely designed habitats that mirror natural spaces.

More than 350 animal species are presented here, as well as 4,200 species of plants in a sectionally divided, 70-acre botanical garden!

Among the animals you can see here are koalas, kangaroos, elephants, meerkats, gorillas, giraffes, zebras, baboons, ostriches, African lions, lorikeets, California sea lions, grizzly bears, Komodo dragons, Siberian tigers, and more.

Habitats encompass the African Plains exhibit of two acres, a Ndoki Forest for Asian species, and more.

Some of the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden’s activities are ziplines, animal-feeding, a carousel, a vertical rope course, a climbing wall, and even a play area that spans 3 acres.

In other words, it’s more than just a zoo – and it’s even one of America’s greatest, at that! – and it’s well worth a visit!

Address: 500 Wildlife Pkwy, Columbia, SC 29210, United States

11. DuPont Planetarium

DuPont Planetarium

The DuPont Planetarium is a part of the University of South Carolina Aiken and is one of the best South Carolina attractions for those intrigued about space and the heavenly bodies.

The educational space prides itself on a mission of inspiration, aiming to showcase the wonders of the sky and beyond to visitors of all ages.

The theater is relatively small, seating only 45 people and measuring a mere 30 feet in diameter.

However, what it lacks in size it makes up for in information and entertainment.

It renders a beautiful projection of the night sky for the audience.

Regular public shows are held on Saturday nights, making for the perfect way to spend time this weekend, focusing on topics such as astronomy, biology, and the weather.

There are also themed seasonal shows, such as the Seven Wonders of the Earth.

On the first floor, you’ll find an observatory, a camera obscura, a pair of sundials, and even a walk-in kaleidoscope.

The public telescope at the observatory may give you the opportunity to see planets, star formations, and more.

Address: 427 Scholar Loop, Aiken, SC 29801, United States

12. Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens

The Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens are yet another South Carolina plantation.

The plantation itself was founded in 1681, beginning as a site for the growth of pecans and cotton.

It has not ceased operations since its start over three centuries ago and has now widened its scope to incorporate vegetables and fruits that it sells at its market.

In 1983, the Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens were registered on the American National Register of Historic Places.

With 738 acres to its name, it’s one of the most fun places to visit in South Carolina for a mix of exploration, history, and nature.

Gorgeous oak trees, a lovely rose garden, and a stunning butterfly pavilion make it ideal for sightseeing.

You can also head to the mansion itself to explore the house’s antiques and take a step into the past.

Address: 1235 Long Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, United States

13. McLeod Plantation Historic Site

McLeod Plantation Historic Site

The McLeod Plantation Historic Site is a crucial part of the history of America and the Gullah, which has earned it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.

It was created in 1851 and covers 37 acres of land, with a specific 9.2-acre area perfectly preserved for tours and education.

It’s one of the best places to see in the state of South Carolina for those seeking insight into the region’s history.

Tours of the McLeod Plantation Historic Site last 45 minutes and bring you through a number of well-kept buildings that retain much of their original features.

The main plantation home, a riverside pavilion outside, a cotton-processing shed equipped with machinery of the era, and even 6 slave cabins made of clapboard are included in the tour.

Address: 325 Country Club Dr, Charleston, SC 29412, United States

14. Greenville Zoo

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Seeking fun things to do in South Carolina – one of the most beautiful states in the US?

The Greenville Zoo  is a great option!

It opened in 1960 and covers 14 acres of land.

Founded with the intention of providing community education and fostering appreciation of wildlife and nature, it has since become a key attraction in South Carolina.

Different habitats at the Greenville Zoo provide showcase spaces for all sorts of different animals.

You’ll see monkeys, giant anteaters, African lions, snakes, turtles, toucans, lizards, giraffes, frogs, Amur leopards, domestic animals, and farm animals alike.

There is also the incredible Quarters for Conservation research program that helps fund endangered species protection.

A range of bike and walking paths gives you an easy way to explore the Greenville Zoo.

You can even stop for activities like sports at the volleyball and tennis courts, snacks at the picnic sites and concession stand and play at the playgrounds.

Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop or check out the programs and events!

Address: 150 Cleveland Park Dr, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

15. Drayton Hall

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Drayton Hall is largely considered one of the best places to go in the state for a mix of history and authentic Georgian Palladian architecture.

It was built for John Drayton over the span of four years, with construction completed in 1742 with a mixture of free and slave labor.

The house, which sits on land measuring 630 acres, remained within the family until 1974.

In that time, disasters in the late 19th century destroyed two of the outbuildings, but since then more than 260 years of preservation have allowed it to remain the same.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation received the building in 1974, 14 years after its National Historic Landmark designation.

The South Carolina Department of Archives and History considers it one of America’s finest remaining plantation houses.

It was also the only one in the area that survived both the Civil War and the prior American Revolution and earned its National Trust recognition for its full wood paneling, elaborate entrance hall ceiling, and breathtaking double stairs.

Professionally guided tours of the house and self-guided tours of the gardens give you tremendous glimpses into the culture and times of the building’s most active years.

The main house, built from red brick, has barely changed from its initial structure.

The African American Cemetery, Ashley River and marsh, and Gates Gallery all provide more ways to learn about the history of the location, and the National Trust’s many programs supplement that well.

Address: 3380 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, United States

16. Charleston City Market

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The Charleston City Market has a sobering history that, while not fun to learn much of, makes it a crucial place among South Carolina destinations for those who want the full, unfiltered truth of the state’s history.

It was built in 1859 and earned the nickname of the “Old Slave Mart” for obvious reasons.

As slavery laws tightened, the Charleston City Market of South Carolina was seen as a means to provide space for private auctions.

Congress has banned any international slave trade participation beginning 1808, but it wasn’t until 1865 that it declared the domestic slave trade outlawed.

This meant that this actually caused the peak of the slave trade of America, and up to 40% of all enslaved African people were brought through Charleston and sold to one of the South’s many plantations.

When public auctions were outlawed by the city in 1856, the Charleston City Market was created.

The Charleston City Market’s dark history has seen it auction enslaved individuals, farmland, and livestock.

When the Union Army put a stop to much of the industry’s existence upon its occupation of the city, auction houses were slowly destroyed until none but the Charleston City Market remained.

The building saw new lives as a tenement, then a museum, then a car dealership, and today an actual market with a museum on site.

You can purchase leather goods, toys, souvenirs, and clothes here, as well as the works of the “basket ladies”, who are of West African descent.

Address: 188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

17. Congaree National Park

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The Congaree National Park is relatively new in the span of South Carolina’s length history, having only been designated a national park in 2003, but it’s one of the best things to see and is a pride of the state.

Swampy and wide-reaching with 20,000 acres of verdant wilderness, it contains one of America’s biggest old-growth forest tracts.

You can explore the stunning Congaree National Park by walking on the boardwalk, or you can try taking a canoe or kayak out.

Boardwalk Loop is an easy way to explore on foot while Cedar Creek offers water vessel excursions that get the adrenaline pumping.

Birds, snakes, synchronous fireflies, bobcats, and more call the park their home and may be spotted along the way.

Congaree National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is made up of floodplains from the titular Congaree River.

It has the country’s highest deciduous tree canopy and some of the tallest trees in general on this side of the Mississippi.

More than 100,000 visitors come by annually to check out the flora and fauna.

Address: 100 National Park Rd, Hopkins, SC 29061, United States

18. The Angel Oak

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The Angel Oak looks like it came right out of a fairytale.

It’s one of the oldest oak trees still living on this side of the Mississippi River and can be found in Johns Island, South Carolina.

It’s a bit of a hidden gem but it’s a fun must-do that’ll take your breath away.

With a 17,000 square-foot shaded area around it, a 28-foot circumference, and a 65-foot or 6-story height, the Angel Oak is impressive, magnificent, and a sight to behold.

Its biggest branch spans a whopping 187 feet!

The Angel Oak is believed to be between 400 and 500 years old and is a Southern live oak, which is a kind of flora native to the coastal Carolinas’ lowland country area.

It has seen a lot of disasters in its time, from earthquakes to hurricanes to floods.

It even suffered damage in 1989’s Hurricane Hugo but recovered very well and proceeded to grow on.

The name comes from the Angel Estate, and it’s rumored that former slaves appear as ghosts in its vicinity.

It has since become Charleston City’s property and the local Coastal Conservation League has fought long and hard to protect it from potential damage from development activities.

Address: 3688 Angel Oak Rd, Johns Island, SC 29455, United States

19. The Peace Center

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The Peace Center is situated in the heart of Greenville’s downtown area and is largely considered the upstate’s cultural hub.

The multipurpose venue is capable of seating 2,100 people in its concert hall, 1,400 people in its amphitheater, and 400 people in its theater.

It has event spaces, rehearsal spaces, different stages, and more, making it incredibly versatile for acts of all kinds.

300 or so events are held at the Peace Center on an annual basis, with genres suiting many different tastes.

Jazz, Broadway, musical concerts, comedy, political events, and celebrity acts all arrive here to take the stage.

There’s also the South Carolina Children’s Theater and the Greenville Symphony Orchestra, which call the Peace Center their home.

With all its variety, there’s no surprise that watching a show here is one of the top things to do in South Carolina!

Address: 300 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

20. Hilton Head Island

Not sure what to do in South Carolina that’s laid-back and down-to-earth?

Head to Hilton Head Island this weekend, one of the points of interest perfectly suitable for thinner crowds and low-country activities.

It is one of South Carolina’s many beach towns but boasts entertainment that will keep things cool and chilled out during your stay.

Sandy beaches, cycling trails with informational signs and lovely views, dolphins at low tide, golf courses, eateries, and shopping opportunities make Hilton Head Island a sheer delight.

It’s a glorious island retreat without the stress of an overly packed tourism hotspot and is one of the state’s most beautiful places.

Planning a trip to Charleston? Known for its robust tourism industry, Charleston is home to famous historical landmarks and sites! If you do plan the trip, here’s what to do in Charleston, SC ! 

21. Charleston Tea Garden

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The Charleston Tea Garden is North America’s only tea plantation, which means it’s extremely one-of-a-kind and definitely among the greatest South Carolina attractions.

Owned by Bigelow Tea Company, the plantation has an interesting start to life.

In the late 1700s, French botanist Andre Michaux brought the Camellia sinensis plant, central to all tea, to North America.

In 1888, Dr. Charles Shepherd successfully produced plants capable of growing tea in the climates of America and set up a highly successful farm in Summerville, South Carolina, known as the Pinehurst Tea Plantation.

When he died in 1915, his plantation was abandoned.

The Thomas J. Lipton Company purchased the dying plantation in 1960 and moved the remaining tea plants to Wadmalaw Island near Charleston, placing them in a research facility.

17 years of hard work and experimentation led to the creation of over 300 tea varieties, but Lipton didn’t think tea would be successfully grown in America due to climate and labor costs.

Finally, in 1987, a man named Bill Hall – the son and grandson of tea tasters – purchased the research site.

He reviewed old research and developed eight tea varieties onsite in what would become the Charleston Tea Garden.

Bigelow Tea Company finally bought it in 2003 and took Hall’s tea and distributed it nationwide.

The rest, as they say, is history!

The plantation now offers guided trolley tours of its grounds and a gift shop with many tea varieties and souvenirs.

Address: 6617 Maybank Hwy, Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487, United States

22. Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is one of the key places to visit in South Carolina and is one of its most fun vacation spots, especially in the summer.

It welcomes 13 million annual visitors and a ton of beach excitement, with many activities to enjoy and try out.

Aside from relaxing on the shore, you can explore this South Carolina getaway by visiting some of its key attractions.

Broadway at the Beach offers numerous entertainment and shopping opportunities separated into charming themed areas.

The Ripley’s attractions bring the bizarre and unique to light in museums, aquariums, and other enjoyable outlets.

Finally, the 187-foot Myrtle Beach SkyWheel gives you a 10-minute ride in a lovely gondola to view the stunning panorama of the world outside.

23. The Pearl Fryar Topiary Garden

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The Pearl Fryar Topiary Garden is one of South Carolina’s free things to do, and better yet, it’s also one of the state’s tourist attractions.

Its tale begins in 1981 when the titular Pearl Fryar and his wife got a hold of their very first yard area with their new home.

After facing racial discrimination and fears of their white neighbors over their supposed inability to maintain a yard, Fryar became determined to win the local Gardener’s Club Yard of the Month award – and be the first Black man in Bishopville to do so in the process.

To do so, he started to rescue plants thrown into nursery compost piles.

Fryar had no knowledge of horticulture but taught himself what he could, and his plants grew under his careful hands.

He ignored advice to use fertilizer and pesticide and even didn’t water them almost at all, and yet they grew and grew!

He then started making his plants into abstract shapes with an electric hand saw, slowly working through all three acres of his land until it boasted 300 topiaries.

Pearl Fryar continues to tend to his yard every single day till now, further decorating his land with homemade “junk-art”.

You’ll see fantasy forms in the plants, or fish skeletons, or even letters, and you can tell that Fryar puts a lot of love into every single detail.

The Garden Conservancy and the Friends of Pearl Fryar Topiary Garden partnered in 2006 with the aim of preserving the garden for a long, long time to come.

You’re welcome to visit and explore!

Address: 145 Broad Acres Rd, Bishopville, SC 29010, United States

24. Alligator Adventure

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Alligator Adventure isn’t just the biggest reptile zoo in South Carolina; it’s also one of the world’s largest!

Spanning 15 acres, it aims to let visitors learn more about these deadly reptiles safely but up-close.

You get to watch alligators get fed and even touch one in a controlled environment.

Aside from alligators, Alligator Adventure surprisingly holds over 200 animal species, ranging from birds to mammals, from other reptiles to amphibians, and even an array of exotic creatures.

The alligators still take the cake, though!

Regardless of what you’re here to see, a trip to Alligator Adventure is one of the most fun things to do in South Carolina.

Address: 4604 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582, United States

25. UFO Welcome Center

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The UFO Welcome Center is one of the most unique places to go in the state of South Carolina.

It is entirely homemade by local resident Jody Pendarvis and is made out of random junk materials, metal, and scrap wood.

The design is meant to look like a pair of silver UFOs balanced on top of each other behind a fence of metal scraps.

The lower UFO structure is fitted with a television, toilet, shower, bed, sofa, and even air conditioning, designed to be a good home to an interstellar traveler who needs a place to rest.

Pendarvis himself even stays in it when it gets too hot, as the structure boasts better air conditioning than his own trailer!

The UFO Welcome Center was completed in 1994 and measures 42 feet in width.

The entry fee increases relatively regularly, so it’s a bit of a novelty and may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it rests in Pendarvis’ backyard and proclaims its name loudly, spray-painted with the words “UFO Welcome Center” on the scrap fence.

Address: 4004 Homestead Rd, Bowman, SC 29018, United States

26. Falls Park on the Reedy

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Falls Park on the Reedy is situated in Greenville, South Carolina, and is a stunning urban space packed with lush green – a fun city park that should be on your list of things to do in SC!

It is home to the annual Upstate Shakespeare Festival and provides amenities for picnics, trails for cycling, and even a man-made waterfall.

Falls Park on the Reedy was finished in 1967 and spans 32 acres.

It is decorated with public sculptures and art, charming stonework, and the rather architecturally interesting Liberty Bridge.

There’s even a trail that leads into Cleveland Park called the Swamp Rabbit Trail that you can hike!

Address: 601 S Main St, Greenville, SC 29601, United States

Planning a trip to Columbia? Affectionately known as the “Soda City” Columbia was named after Christopher Columbus! If you do plan the trip, here are some of the best things to do in Columbia, SC !

27. White Point Garden

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Since 1837, White Point Garden has been one of South Carolina’s things to see.

It is a public park spanning 5.7 acres that can be found in Charleston, right on the peninsular tip.

It’s a great space for photography and relaxation, and the views of Fort Sumter and the Charleston Harbor from here are wonderful.

One of the main draws of White Point Garden is the fact that it was used as a Civil War fortification.

This means that cannons, mortars, and other military relics still remain scattered about the area.

You can find them as you walk on the pathways beneath the oak tree shade, and there is also a gazebo and some benches to relax in when you need a break.

Address: 2 Murray Blvd, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

28. Poe’s Tavern

Poe’s Tavern

You may not know this, but Edgar Allen Poe spent some army time on Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina, from 1827 to 1828, under the name Edgar A. Perry.

Some locals of Charleston believe that his story, The Gold Bug, written in 1843, is set on Sullivan’s Island.

This would eventually lead to poets and writers telling tales of Poe’s so-called southern roots, even going to the lengths of saying that Poe’s ghost remains wandering the beaches of the state.

There are even some who think Annabel Lee is about a local woman Poe met here!

Truthfully, much of Poe’s connection to South Carolina has shrunk into myth material more than fact.

But that doesn’t mean that Poe’s Tavern isn’t a must-see near the shore of the Atlantic!

The fun little eatery and pub is quirky, colorful, and full of quotes by Poe and portraits of the late great author.

It’s a cool place to grab a snack and chat with some locals while experiencing some of the legendary legacy of Poe!

Address: 2210 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482, United States

29. Fort Moultrie National Monument

Another Sullivan’s Island spot, the Fort Moultrie National Monument earned its monument status in 1948 thanks to its 171-year protection of Charleston from the Revolutionary War to World War II.

It was built in 1776 and retains much of its original appearance thanks to restorative efforts.

Guided tours of the Fort Moultrie National Monument are among the best things to do in South Carolina, offered twice daily and earning you a special and fun look into the past.

Interpretive signs and informational plaques also allow for self-guided tours.

Address: 1214 Middle St, Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482, United States

30. Old Sheldon Church Ruins

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The Old Sheldon Church Ruins may be one of the most haunting places to visit in South Carolina.

They date back to the mid-1700s and boast gothic architecture.

Details surrounding its creation are fuzzy, but it is believed that it was once a part of a worship house known as a Parish Church of Prince William.

When the Revolutionary War came about, it was nearly destroyed by British forces, then lay abandoned.

In 1826, attempts to rebuild began, but then the Civil War broke out and General Sherman’s troops burned it down when they entered South Carolina.

The Old Sheldon Church Ruins have remained in that state ever since, creating an oddly beautiful and melancholy experience for visitors.

With tall oaks and old graves, it’s commonly used for photoshoots and photography, and it is also one of the free things to do in the state.

Address: Old Sheldon Church Rd, Yemassee, SC 29945, United States

31. Old Charleston Jail

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The Old Charleston Jail was erected in 1802 and served as the South Carolina city’s jailhouse until 1939.

The front interior of the jail is all that remains from its initial design, as rebuilding in 1855 provided a more threatening appearance with towers, an octagon, and an arched facade.

Each floor was designed to hold a different kind of inmate – ground floor for “gentlemen”, second floor for minor criminals, and third floor for hardened criminals.

Most of the prisoners who were locked up in the Old Charleston Jail were petty criminals, though the worst offenders were hanged in the yard.

Many who weren’t hanged passed away from disease or natural causes.

When the Civil War came around, hundreds of Union soldiers were kept here, with total numbers being so large that some POWs had to stay in tents in the jail yard.

An earthquake in Charleston in 1886 destroyed parts of the jail and some parts were demolished or reduced significantly.

In 1911, the last hanging occurred here, then the jail declined in the 1930s as apartment buildings were set to be constructed opposite its grounds.

In 1939, it was decommissioned and used for storage until the 1970s, when it was turned into a museum.

Finally, today, it is one of the most unique South Carolina attractions and is owned by the American College of the Building Arts, which is restoring and renovating it.

Address: 21 Magazine St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

32. The Button Museum

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The Button Museum is one of the many fun things to do in South Carolina.

It was created by Dalton Stevens, who experienced severe insomnia that reached its height in 1983.

Desperate for something to do, he started sewing buttons into a suit repeatedly.

In two years, 16,000 buttons had been glued or sewn onto it, and Stevens moved onto button-ing his guitar shoes, and even more.

Though this didn’t exactly help his insomnia, this gained Stevens quite a bit of fame.

This hobby gave him more stuff to do, and he became “Button King” by his own proclamation and started adding buttons to the most exotic and eccentric things he could find.

He would then rent out a space close to his home to house all these items in, and this would become the Button Museum.

Stevens passed away in 2016 in South Carolina’s Bishopville, but the Button Museum lives on.

You can find all sorts of things covered in buttons here, such as caskets, an outhouse, hearses, and more.

Address: 53 Joe Dority Rd, Bishopville, SC 29010, United States

Planning a trip to Greenville? Considered as the cultural and entertainment center for the upstate, Greenville is known for its recreational centers and delicious food! If you do plan the trip, here are some of the top things to do in Greenville, SC !

33. South Carolina Aquarium

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The South Carolina Aquarium opened in 2000 and is a whopping 93,000-square-foot facility packed with exciting ways to spend your time.

It’s one of the top places to go for families and is an excellent location for fans of marine life of all kinds.

At the South Carolina Aquarium, you’ll find aquariums, touch tanks, salt marsh aviaries, and more.

Horseshoe crabs can be held, stingrays can be fed, sharks can be touched, and animals like reptiles, lemurs, and songbirds also wait to be seen.

Address: 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

34. Tiny Town of Easley

Tiny Town of Easley

The Tiny Town of Easley was once a traditional holiday site in South Carolina, one of the key southern points of interest for generations of locals.

In 1974, Perry and Ollie Jennings kickstarted it all when Perry built a tiny log cabin for Ollie just like one she’d always wished to live in but knew she was unlikely to be able to.

Ollie was so thrilled with the little cabin that the couple decided to keep building.

By 1977, they had a whole tiny miniature version of the town they lived in, and they added Christmas lights as small buildings popped in more and more.

Children loved the small town and it was one of the staple things to see for them.

The Jennings passed away by 2009, and this left the Tiny Town of Easley with 80 structures.

Sadly, only 25 remain, and some of those have been changed to be more kid-friendly.

Despite that, thousands of people visit this corner of South Carolina to view the town every year, a testament to the vernacular handicraft that was once a staple of the region.

There is no entrance fee, making it one of the state’s free things to do, too.

Address: 555 Latham Rd, Easley, SC 29640, United States

35. Deep Sea Fishing

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Anyone visiting South Carolina should be aware that deep sea fishing is a must-do – that is, if you like to fish, to begin with, of course!

Anywhere from April to November is ripe for anglers, with giant blue marlin, amberjack, barracuda, sailfish, cobia, and more game fish making up the deep waters.

This is especially true because of the many artificial reefs of South Carolina.

3,000 miles of tidal shoreline and various fish species make all these pretty places perfect for fishing!

Hilton Head Island, Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and Beaufort are prime South Carolina destinations for this activity, and you can rent private boats, jump on fishing charters, or use your own vessel.

36. Oyotunji African Village

Oyotunji African Village

One of the best things to do in South Carolina is to visit the authentic Yoruba village known as the Oyotunji African Village .

It was founded by Oba Oseijeman Adefunmi I in the 1970s in Sheldon, South Carolina, as his followers arrived from places like Indiana , New York , and Chicago .

The Oyotunji African Village is North America’s oldest authentic village of its kind.

Once upon a time, 200 residents live here, but that number has dwindled to now about 50.

It only measures about 10 acres in size and, while it uses basic amenities like plumbing and electricity, the residents live very simply.

Courtyards, open-air shrines, a bazaar selling jewelry, art, clothing, and herbs, and a royal palace.

It’s a great way to entrench yourself into a culture you don’t find often in America.

Address: 56 Bryant Ln, Seabrook, SC 29940, United States

37. Poinsett Bridge

Arcade Photo / Shutterstock

Poinsett Bridge is a humble little spot with gothic design and a shrouded history.

It’s known for being South Carolina’s oldest bridge and is even the reason for the name of the forest reserve it’s in.

But somehow, no one knows who built it!

The bridge earned its name from local resident Joel Roberts Poinsett, a renowned individual at the time, and it was made in 1820 as a means of connecting North Carolin a and Tennessee .

The road spans 130 feet and the bridge is made of simple stonework arranged in a medieval-style archway.

It’s widely considered one of the area’s most beautiful places to see and is a much-loved local landmark worthy of a trip.

Address: 580 Callahan Mountain Rd, Landrum, SC 29356, United States

38. Yogi Bear Honey Fried Chicken

Yogi Bear Honey Fried Chicken

A little unusual among South Carolina attractions, the Yogi Bear Honey Fried Chicken at Hartsville is the last outlet of the honey-flavored-chicken franchise created in the 1960s when celebrity restaurants were at the height of popularity.

Locals of South Carolina very much enjoy dining at this unique remnant of the past, which screeched to a halt when Hardees Foods Inc. lost interest in expanding the chain.

Locations closed down one by one, and Hartsville’s branch has been the only one since the late 1990s.

It’s a fascinating slice of fast-food history.

Address: 514 S 5th St, Hartsville, SC 29550, United States

Planning a trip to Myrtle Beach? Known for its breathtaking beaches, golf links, and tantalizing seafood restaurants, Myrtle Beach is a major tourist destination for all the right reasons! If you do plan the trip, here are some of the cool things to do in Myrtle Beach !

39. Mars Bluff Crater

Kelly Michals / flickr

If you want more unique places to visit in South Carolina, the Mars Bluff Crater is a fascinating option.

During the Cold War, the military had difficulty keeping nuclear bombs airborne as they were being transported, and some were completely lost.

Twice, though, the bombs were dropped onto American land – and once, one such bomb landed on the home of Walter Gregg in Horry County, South Carolina.

Luckily, the bomb hadn’t been armed and it didn’t detonate, and the place it fell wasn’t densely populated.

But the fact that it dropped at all was an act of carelessness due to an accidentally pushed emergency release pin.

When the 8,500-pound weapon fell 15,000 feet to the ground, Gregg and his family were thankfully unharmed when it landed and created the Mars Bluff Crater, destroying his house and many homes nearby in the process.

This marked the beginning of higher safety precautions when transporting these weapons and Gregg was paid $54,000 to quietly start his life anew.

Eventually, he even befriended the crew that caused the fall and remained pen pals with many, even after he moved away.

You can come to visit the partially obscured crater now and marvel at the tragedy very narrowly avoided.

It’s one of the state’s free things to do, naturally!

Address: Crater Rd., Mars Bluff, Florence, SC 29506, United States

40. God’s Acre Healing Springs

God’s Acre Healing Springs

God’s Acre Healing Springs is another one of the free things to do in the state, and it’s one of many remarkable unique tourist attractions.

It is so named because the land is owned by God himself and the natural spring water is rumored to be able to heal the sick.

The tale goes that fatally wounded soldiers from British forces were waiting to die in the woods when Native Americans brought them to the spring to heal up.

Six months later, the soldiers returned to their camps, completely healed.

From then on, God’s Acre Healing Springs transferred ownership many times before finally being deeded to “God” by its final owner in 1944.

Given the immortal nature of God, as we know him, the natural springs flow freely and presumably will continue to do so for years to come!

Address: Springs Ct, Blackville, SC 29817, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To South Carolina

There are many places to visit in South Carolina, and they cover all sorts of genres and subjects that are interesting to people of all ages and from all walks of life.

With any luck, this list has helped you decide what to do on your trip to South Carolina, the Palmetto State!

Happy travels.

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in South Carolina

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on February 5, 2024

The gorgeous state of South Carolina is bordered by Georgia , North Carolina , Tennessee and the Atlantic Ocean. Within its borders, you will find stunning beaches, national forests, thriving cities, traditional villages and plenty of Southern charm.

Coastal destinations are a top pick for many, but South Carolina is also a nature lover’s dream getaway. As you plan your trip to the Palmetto State, be sure to check out this list of best places to visit in South Carolina:

10. Columbia

Many visitors take time to explore Columbia , the state capital of South Carolina and its largest city. The two biggest draws to the area include the Army base called Fort Jackson and the sprawling campus of the University of South Carolina.

If you’re interested in architecture and history that predates the Civil War, then check out the Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens. Built in 1818, this antebellum structure is beautiful, and you can still tour the interior to see many of the original furnishings. If you’re eager to snag some souvenirs, Five Points is a remarkable shopping destination in Columbia packed with independent shops and boutiques.

9. Caesars Head State Park

One of the most interesting and scenic spots in South Carolina is Caesars Head State Park. The park is situated in the northernmost part of the state, right on the border with North Carolina. Caesars Head itself is a gigantic rock formation that overlooks the entire Piedmont region below.

Hiking is the most popular pastime at Caesars Head State Park, and shorter trails like the Raven Cliff Falls are an easy alternative for those who want a brief introduction to the landscape. Fishing, overnight camping and spotting hawks migrating in the fall are other amazing ways to experience the park.

8. Pawleys Island

In the Grand Strand Region of South Carolina, and right on the coast, is Pawleys Island. This slice of paradise is a retreat where you can unwind, stay active and kick back on beautiful beaches. Long preferred by the wealthy, Pawleys Island is an upscale spot for those in search of a South Carolina getaway.

Litchfield Beach is a big attraction, offering glorious sand dunes and a long stretch of pristine white coastline. Also appealing are the many golf courses, some of which offer unparalleled sea views right from the tees.

7. Congaree National Park

Just outside of the capital city of Columbia is the Congaree National Park. Named for the Congaree Indians that once lived and fished in the area, the national park is an interesting mix of forested area and floodplain swampland. Here, you can find some of the largest cypress trees in the world, which are well worth a visit.

Birdwatching is another popular pastime, with plenty of songbirds and the occasional hawk to be spotted. Most trails are for hiking, but the Cedar Creek Canoe Trail is a unique way to explore the landscape from the water.

6. Mount Pleasant

One of the better known suburbs of Charleston is Mount Pleasant. The Ravenel Bridge, an iconic part of the city, links the two destinations. Mount Pleasant is primarily residential, but it has a lot to offer visitors as well. Notably, Mount Pleasant is home to the Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum. This museum boasts retired Navy ships, many of which can be toured including the World War II aircraft carrier USS Yorktown.

Mount Pleasant is also a wonderful place to get outdoors, and the walking paths at Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park and Shem Creek Park are scenic places to do exactly that.

5. Greenville

While much of South Carolina has a historic, traditional feel, Greenville is the modern, progressive alternative. The city is often described as the melting pot of the Old South and the New South, and it boasts a growing cultural landscape.

On your visit, you might opt to explore the Greenville County Museum of Art or catch a touring Broadway show at the Peace Center Theater. Don’t leave without taking the time to visit Falls Park on the Reedy, a truly stunning park right in the center of the city that features an enormous waterfall. This park is truly the heart of Greenville and was in fact the birthplace of the city itself.

4. Beaufort

The coastal town of Beaufort is just off the Intra-Coastal Waterway, and it has a history dating back to the Spanish exploration of the early 16th century. Today, Beaufort is known for its historic architecture and Southern charms.

A great place to start is at the Beaufort History Museum, or you can see what an antebellum mansion looked like with a tour of the John Mark Verdier House. Walk through Beaufort’s Historic District to admire more of the town’s architecture, and then stop in at one of the charming cafes for a glass of sweet tea to cool down.

3. Hilton Head Island

Just north of Savannah , Georgia, is the picturesque Hilton Head Island . This barrier island is only 12 miles (19 km) long, but it has earned a reputation as a playground for those who love warm weather, gorgeous beaches and an abundance of golf courses.

While the rich and famous own a lot of the local property, particularly in the upscale neighborhood of Harbour Town, there are still over nine miles of public-access coastline available.

There are also several bike paths, countless golf courses and the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center, which is regarded as one of the best tennis training centers in the world. Don’t forget to add a dolphin watching tour to your itinerary, as dolphins are spotted throughout the year from just off the coast.

2. Myrtle Beach

More than 14 million people a year come to Myrtle Beach, and it is easy to see why. The coastal hotspot boasts incredible beaches, blue waters and bright white sand. Sunrise and sunset offers magnificent views that simply can’t be beat.

What really sets Myrtle Beach apart is that is has a number of big attractions just off of the beach. Mini golf courses, Ripley’s Aquarium and countless dinner theater shows provide fun out of the sun. After dark, the best place to be is Broadway at the Beach, the enormous collection of bars and restaurants where you can always find something fun to do.

1. Charleston

One of the most popular tourist destinations in the South, Charleston is a historic port city packed with antebellum architecture. Its historic downtown is on a peninsula formed by two rivers, the Ashley and the Cooper, flowing into the Atlantic, and protected from the open ocean by surrounding islands.

Fort Sumter, accessible by ferry from Charleston, is an important Civil War landmark. Make your way to the French Quarter to find the Huguenot church and several wonderful art galleries.

If you would like to see some of the most important sites at once, and enjoy a heavy dose of charm at the same time, consider a traditional carriage tour through the city. The Market is another must-see attraction bordered by shops, restaurants and nightlife.

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April 28, 2020 at 2:59 pm

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• Destinations

25 Best Places to Visit in South Carolina

Last Updated By VI on May 9, 2024 in Things to Do in South Carolina & Places to Visit , Map

Pawleys Island, South Carolina

Charleston, south carolina, greenville, south carolina, myrtle beach, south carolina.

• Complete List & Map

Pawleys Island is located around twenty-five miles from Myrtle Beach and seventy miles from Charleston. The island off the coast of South Carolina is one of the East Coast’s oldest summer resorts. Visitors with a love for historical building can find twelve residences dating back to late 1700’s through the mid-1800’s in the island’s historic district. Pawleys Island is known for having a laid-back, carefree, shoeless lifestyle that includes rope hammocks, ghost stories, fishing, and crabbing, as well as delightful, casual, unspoiled wide beaches and sand dunes. A leisurely existence of local residents has developed the island’s charm that continues today.

---> The town has a thriving arts scene that you can explore by visiting the historic Charleston Music Hall and the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art , to name but a few. Charleston prides itself on showcasing Southern cuisine, and foodies can discover the vibrant flavors of the South on a Charleston Culinary Tour or a Charleston Brews Cruise to sample local craft beers. Next read: Romantic Getaways in Charleston and Romantic Restaurants in Charleston

Families can spend hours of educational fun at the Roper Mountain Science Center and the Children’s Museum of the Upstate or get some exercise in the Caesars Head State Park where you can go hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The free Greenville Trolley is a great way for weekenders to get around town.--->

Good to know: Best Time to Visit Myrtle Beach

Spartanburg

Car enthusiasts should not miss touring BMW Zentrum , the German car maker’s only museum and manufacturing plant in America. Nature lovers can explore hiking, biking, and walking trails or take a stroll through some of Spartanburg’s arboretums and nature preserves.

Aiken is a city in the western part of South Carolina in the Central Savannah River Valley, best known for its equestrian culture and the large number of thoroughbred champions it has produced. Of course, there is more to Aiken than beautiful horses, fox hunts, and polo matches – it is also home to the largest urban forest in the country. Its downtown is a delight, with elegant streets shaded by ancient oaks and lined by a number of art galleries that showcase the city’s rich art scene.

Kiawah Island

You can explore the many waterways on the island by joining a kayak or stand-up paddle boat tour or hire a bike and explore on two wheels. If you fancy fishing you can organize a fishing charter or admire the coastline by motorboat. The island also offers tennis (and lessons), four spas, and many great dining options. Next read: South Carolina beaches and South Carolina resorts

Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, Beaufort

The park lies between downtown Beaufort and the Beaufort River/Intracoastal waterway and is made up of several different areas, including scenic riverfront walkways, a children’s playground, swings, picnic areas, and a small pavilion, all with easy access to the National Historic Landmark District. You can come for a peaceful picnic, watch the constant nautical activities, or attend one of the annual events such as the Taste of Beaufort, the Shrimp Festival, or the Water Festival.--->

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Another option is to set off by boat to explore the coastline with one of several outfitters. You can go hiking and nature-watching in the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, or take the children to the Sandbox Interactive Children’s Museum. End you day with a feast of fresh seafood at one of the island’s 250 restaurants.

Located in an old agricultural and textile region in what is known as “upstate” South Carolina, Mauldin is a modern town overlooking the Appalachian Mountains with charming, beautifully preserved historic downtown. Mauldin has a rich and vibrant cultural scene with a renowned symphony, theatre, and ballet that offer yearly programs at the Peace Center for the Performing Arts. With the Blue Ridge Mountains to the north of town and Conestee Lake and the park to the west, there is plenty of green space for outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of paved hiking and biking trails. Frankie’s Fun Park offers indoor and outdoor fun with go-carts, arcades, and other family games. Pelham Mill Park is a popular riverside park with remains of an old historic textile mill and post office.

More ideas: Myrtle Beach Beaches

Rock Hill, South Carolina

Daredevils can have fun at Camp Canaan, which offers zip-lines, climbing, and other fun activities. On rainy days, you can head to cultural and heritage sites such as historic Brattonsville, the Museum of York County, and the Children’s Museum in Old Town Rock Hill. --->

North Charleston

You can take the kids to the North Charleston and American LaFrance Fire Museum and Education Center where they can see both vintage and new fire engines. Art lovers can spend some time at the North Charleston City Gallery or watch a concert at the North Charleston Coliseum. --->

Huntington Beach State Park

You can go hiking and bird watching along various trials (for all fitness levels) to wildlife observation points, enjoy sunbathing and walking along the pristine beach, and learn all about marine life at the Nature Center. The surf fishing is rumored to be the finest in the state, but you can also fish off a jetty or launch a boat at Oyster Landing.

Caesars Head State Park

The 2-mile Raven Falls Trail takes you to the suspension bridge overlooking the 420-foot Raven Falls and is one of the most popular. Bird watching, particularly the fall Hawk migration, is a popular activity, and you can also cast a line to catch some trout.

Congaree State Park, South Carolina

There are two ways to explore this amazing habitat, which supports a large variety of wildlife – you can take to the waters along the marked 15-mile Cedar Creek Canoe Trail in a canoe or kayak (you need to bring your own craft), or you can hike an assortment of hiking trails. You can pitch your tent at one of two campsites, try your hand at fishing, or enroll in a ranger-led program.

Falls Park on the Reedy

You can bring a picnic and relax on the expansive lawns or have a meal at one of two on-site restaurants. Hikers and cyclists can use Falls Park as their springboard to the 20-mile Swamp Rabbit Trail, while art lovers can have fun uncovering several public sculptures dotted around the park.

Hunting Island State Park

For a great overview of the island, you can climb to the top of the historic 1859 Hunting Island Lighthouse. Other fun activities include shell collecting and crabbing. You can pitch a tent or park your RV at the campsite, which offers easy access to the beach.

Sea Pines Forest Preserve

If you prefer to explore on horseback, tale advantage of the cleared bridle paths available. You can picnic at Fish Island in the center of the preserve, admire the Wildflower Field at Lake Thomas, and visit Indian Shell Ring, the site of a 4000-year old Indian Village.

You can immerse yourself in the town’s vibrant arts scene by visiting the Blue Ridge Arts Center and attending one of several performing arts venues. Outdoors enthusiasts can enjoy boating and hiking at Lake Hartwell or High Falls Country Park or hike to the Big Bend Falls and Bee Cove Falls.

Angel Oak Tree, Charleston

The Angel Oak is believed to be at least 400 to 500 years old and has managed to stand tall and strong, surviving much adverse coastal weather, including several severe hurricanes. You can have your photo taken alongside the imposing 66.5-foot tall tree, and it is fun to see how many people are needed to form a chain around its 28-foot circumference. More day trips from Myrtle Beach

Litchfield Beach

No visit to Litchfield Beach would be complete without exploring beautiful Brookgreen Gardens, where you will find acres of color, a sculpture garden, a zoo, and a children’s garden.

Families can visit the South Carolina State Museum (which incorporates an observatory, planetarium, and 4D interactive theater) for hours of educational fun or make their way to the EdVenture Children’s Museum or Riverbanks Zoo and Botanic Garden. Art lovers should not miss MAMM (the modern art museum), while foodies should consider joining a Columbia Food Tour. --->

Hunting Island Lighthouse for Couples

Interestingly, the lighthouse was built with overlapping steel plates rather than bricks, which made it possible for it to be dismantled and moved farther inland in 1889 when it was threatened by beach erosion.

There are five museums you can visit, or you could just stroll along Front Street to admire the quaint shops and galleries or eat ocean-fresh seafood. Boat tours are also very popular. --->

South Carolina’s Atlantic Coast shoreline is home to a large number of barrier islands, including parts of the Sea Islands chain, which encompasses more than 100 islands located between the St. Johns and Santee Rivers. The state’s Lowcountry region is noted for its former indigo and rice plantations and serves as a rich cultural center for African-American Gullah culture today. While major islands such as Hilton Head Island are internationally-known tourist destinations, lesser-known spots feature lush natural reserves, quaint local communities, and elite resort areas, providing a wide range of opportunities for day trips and overnight getaways. Whether you’re an avid fishing or water sports fan or a cultural enthusiast looking to sample the region’s unique cuisine, these islands offer a variety of family-friendly cultural, historic, and outdoor attractions.

Daufuskie Island

Daufuskie Island was the setting of author Pat Conroy’s 1972 novel The Water Is Wide and feels like a place lost in time, retaining its pre-20th-century character due to its declaration as an island-wide Historic District. The island is accessible via passenger ferry from nearby Hilton Head Island and offers three miles of beachfront along the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway, and Calibogue Sound waterfronts. Historic sites commemorate the island’s Civil War history, while a vibrant art gallery and studio scene celebrates the island’s Gullah culture through art forms such as basket weaving, pottery, and woodworking. Eclectic Lowcountry dishes are served at restaurants such as the Old Daufuskie Crab Company.

Kiawah Island is a resort island located approximately 20 miles off the coast of Charleston, featuring preserved maritime forest and marsh habitats and more than 10 miles of Atlantic coast beachfront. Conde Nast Traveler named the island America’s top island destination for its magnificent coastline and championship golf resort, which hosted the 1991 Ryder Cup and the 2012 PGA Championship. 30 miles of hiking and bike trails are located throughout the island, part of an island-wide emphasis on natural preservation and ecology. Spectacular views of the Kiawah River are offered from Marsh Island Park’s lookout tower, while guided nature walks are presented by the Heron Park Nature Center.

Callawassie Island

Callawassie Island is located along South Carolina southeastern coast within Beaufort County, approximately 30 miles up shore from Savannah, Georgia. Archaeological evidence shows that the island has been inhabited for at least 4,000 years, though it is best known today as the site of the 19th-century Callawassie Sugar Works, the state’s only known sugar mill ruins. Today, the 880-acre island offers lush salt marsh and maritime forest habitats and is designated as a Community Wildlife Habitat through the National Wildlife Federation, with more than 200 personal residences on the island declared as Backyard Wildlife Habitats. The nature lover’s paradise also features the Sugar Mill, Magnolia, and Sequoia Parks, a colorful blooming Butterfly Garden, and a 27-hole golf course designed by noted architect Tom Fazio.

Capers Island

Capers Island is an undeveloped three-mile barrier island that is only accessible via boat from the mainland, located approximately 15 miles north of Charleston. The island was named after South Carolina citizen Reverend William Theodotus Capers and is preserved as a state-protected refuge today, offering 214 acres of beachfront and stretches of maritime upland, salt marsh, and brackish water land ecosystems. Visitors can explore the island’s famous Boneyard Beach region, which is littered with sun-bleached skeletons and tree stumps, or hike the five-mile McCaskill Trail, which winds through overgrown natural areas. Primitive camping is allowed with a permit for visitors wishing to wake up to the island’s beautiful unspoiled sunrises.

Deveaux Bank

Deveaux Bank is a 215-acre Charleston County island that is home to a noted seabird sanctuary overseen by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. Three miles of beachfront are showcased along its three coastal sides, along with a tidal lagoon region that spans its mainland-facing coast. The island is a popular kayaking day trip spot for visitors to the Charleston region, offering opportunities to spot wildlife such as Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, bald eagles, bonnethead sharks, and snowy and great egrets. Visitors should note that tourist access is restricted to certain island areas during seabird nesting season, with seasonal beach closures designated during the summer months.

Dewees Island

Dewees Island is a 1,200-acre barrier island refuge located approximately 11 miles off the coast of Charleston. Though access to the island is restricted to property owners and their guests due to environmental preservation concerns, a number of vacation rentals and summer home sales are available for visitors wishing to travel to the island. Three miles of undeveloped beachfront offer spectacular Atlantic Ocean views and opportunities to observe wildlife such as white-tailed deer, turtles, and shorebirds. Visitors are encouraged to engage in quiet reflective activities such as writing, reading, and photography and are asked to respect the island’s ownership and property codes.

Dreher Island

Dreher Island is one of three islands that encompass the 348-acre Dreher Island State Park, which offers access to nearly 12 miles of Lake Murray’s popular shoreline. The island is connected to mainland South Carolina by causeway and bridge, located approximately 30 miles from the city of Columbia. It serves as a top regional fishing destination for catching striped and largemouth bass and is host to several major annual national fishing tournaments. Five lakeside villas and more than 100 tent and RV hookup campsites are offered for overnight stay, and a wide variety of opportunities are available for outdoor activities, including boat access ramps, hiking trails, and family picnic shelters and playground facilities.

Edisto Island

Edisto Island is one of the United States’ last remaining unspoiled beach communities, located approximately 40 miles from the city of Charleston within the Sea Islands region. The island provides a relaxed, quaint atmosphere for visitors looking for a respite from more developed tourist islands nearby, though a variety of local attractions provide ample opportunity for visitor entertainment. It is home to the 4,630-acre historic Botany Bay Plantation, which features a top regional golf course, and to the Edisto Island Serpentarium, which showcases unique exhibits related to the island’s wildlife populations. Kayak tours, fishing excursions, and history-focused eco tours are available for visitors, along with a variety of bike paths, shops, and restaurants for leisurely day-trip fun. Overnight campsites offer electrical hookups and restrooms with heated showers.

Folly Island

Folly Island is a 12-square-mile barrier island within the Sea Islands that served as an important Union Army site during the American Civil War. It is home to the community of Folly Beach, known as one of America’s last remaining authentic beach towns, showcasing local hospitality and one-of-a-kind attractions. The historic Porgy House, the former home of 20th-century authors Dubose and Dorothy Heyward, is noted as the inspiration for George Gershwin’s famed Porgy and Bess opera. 2,500 feet of beachfront provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching, while Folly Beach County Park offers a lifeguard-staffed swimming beach and pelican rookery.

Fripp Island

Fripp Island is a top family and golfing tourist destination near the city of Beaufort, spanning approximately 6.5 square miles off South Carolina’s barrier island coastal region. The island is considered to be one of the region’s leading resort beach areas, featuring 3 ½ miles of unspoiled waterfront terrain. Visitor accommodations are provided at the Fripp Island Golf and Beach Resort, which features the Ocean Point and Ocean Creek championship golf courses, along with tennis courts, kayaking opportunities, and a family water park offering a kiddie pool and animal-themed attractions. During the summer months, the resort’s Camp Fripp structures nature and history-themed activities for children. Several onsite restaurants also serve classic Lowcountry dishes such as she crab soup and lobster pot pie.

Goat Island

Goat Island is one of the South Carolina coast’s smallest islands, located along the Intracoastal Waterway between the Isle of Palms and Mount Pleasant. The island was originally known as Eagle Island, but following World War I, it became a popular secluded refuge following its development by goat herders Henry and Blanche Holloway. Today, it retains its isolated charm, offering sanctuary from nearby urban areas. The island is only accessible via boat, located less than 20 minutes from Charleston Harbor and Cape Romain Wildlife Refuge. Its Marsh Walk boardwalk offers views of local wild goat and peacock populations, located along a stretch of natural marshland ecosystem.

Harbor Island

Harbor Island is a private resort island within the Sea Islands region, located approximately 14 miles from the city of Beaufort. The 1,400-acre island, which formerly contained tidal marsh ecosystems and unincorporated hunting grounds, was developed into a resort community in the 1930s and is known today for its beautiful sand dunes and coastal grass landscape. Three miles of pristine waterfront are available for visitor exploration, offering ample opportunities for seabird, horseshoe crab, and dolphin watching. The island’s resort is available for condominium and vacation home rentals, featuring guest amenities such as three outdoor pools, a putting green, and tennis courts.

Hunting Island

Hunting Island is a 5,000-acre barrier island that is preserved as part of the Ashepoo-Combahee-Edisto Basin National Estuarine Reserve. The island is home to Hunting Island State Park, which was established in 1935 and is South Carolina’s most-visited state park today, welcoming more than one million annual visitors. It showcases the Hunting Island Lighthouse, the state’s only publicly-accessible historic lighthouse, which stands 130 feet over the Atlantic coastline. Five miles of beachfront and a saltwater lagoon area are offered for visitor access, along with a public fishing pier, a nature center offering environmental programming, and more than 100 campsites with electrical hookups and family playgrounds.

Isle of Palms

Isle of Palms is located along the Intracoastal Waterway less than 12 miles from the city of Charleston and has been one of the state’s most popular attractions since the early 20th century. The island is home to an affluent resort community that is known for its bustling business district, offering a variety of shops and gourmet restaurants. Live music and beach volleyball are showcased at The Windjammer, which hosts several annual beach volleyball tournaments. Other island attractions include the Wild Dunes oceanfront resort, which is home to two championship golf courses designed by pro architect Tom Fazio and an award-winning children’s recreation program.

Johns Island

Johns Island is South Carolina’s largest barrier island and is the fourth-largest island on the American East Coast after Long and Mount Desert Islands and Martha’s Vineyard. The island is most noted as the home of the famed Angel Oak, a Southern live oak tree that dates back at least 1,400 years and is believed to be one of the largest of its kind in the world. Johns Island Presbyterian Church, one of the nation’s oldest churches, is preserved on the National Register of Historic Places and is open to the public for guided tours. The island is also home to the Mullet Hall Equestrian Center, which offers 20 miles of riding trails, and an annual Battle of Charleston historic reenactment that showcases the culture of 19th-century America.

Lady's Island

Lady's Island’s tourism has grown exponentially throughout the past several decades, making it a top destination today among South Carolina’s Sea Island while retaining much of its rustic historic character. The island is connected to mainland Beaufort County by two bridges that offer spectacular views of the surrounding waterways and is also accessible via several community boat ramps. Former indigo plantation land has been transformed into private residential areas set on large plots of land, featuring equestrian farms, maritime forest areas, and beautiful beachfront property. Several restaurants are offered on the island, and a number of vacation rentals and cabins are available for overnight and short-term stay.

Morris Island

Morris Island is an uninhabited island located near Charleston Harbor that is incorporated as part of the cities of Charleston and Folly Beach. It is noted for its role in the American Civil War and is home to the remains of five historic forts, including Fort Wagner, which is home to an iconic red-and-white-striped lighthouse constructed in 1876. Morris Island Light is also located on the island’s southern end. A number of boating tour companies provide guided island excursions, including Adventure Harbor Tours, which offers shell-seeking excursions, and Thriller Charleston, which rides adventurous waves aboard a 55-foot power catamaran.

Pinckney Island

Pinckney Island is part of a 4,053-acre National Wildlife Refuge that also spans nearby Big and Little Harry, Buzzard, and Corn Islands, though it is the only part of the refuge that is open to the public for visitor access. The refuge is located near Hilton Head Island and is home to large populations of seabirds within its salt marsh, tidal creek, fallow field, and brushland ecosystems. It is open for exploration seven days a week from dusk to dawn, manned by an unstaffed electric gate, and is a popular site for nature enthusiasts, featuring more than 10 miles of hiking and biking trails. 115 prehistoric and historic archaeological sites are also showcased throughout the island.

Port Royal Island

Port Royal Island is Beaufort County’s most populated island and is a noted historic site that has been inhabited since the 1520s, when the Santa Elena fort was established by early Spanish explorers. The Lowcountry island takes its name from the name of a nearby 1562 French settlement led by Jean Ribault, which is used today to refer to the island and its main incorporated city. The city of Beaufort also features a historic downtown region, which showcases historic antebellum mansions, majestic moss-draped live oaks, and gourmet restaurants. A number of homes are open to the public as living history museums, and the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park offers a public performance stage and children’s playground.

Saint Helena Island

Saint Helena Island is one of South Carolina’s Sea Islands and is noted as the inspiration for the children’s television series Gullah Gullah Island , which showcased African-American Gullah culture. The island is connected to the nearby city of Beaufort by highway and spans an area of 64 square miles, which contains the communities of Frogmore and Lands End. Fort Fremont Historical Park and Beach showcases the remains of a Spanish-American War-era fort, while the Penn Center offers educational exhibits and programming related to the island’s African-American heritage. Other attractions include the historic 18th-century Chapel of Ease and the art galleries of downtown Frogmore’s cultural district.

Spring Island

Spring Island is a 3,000-acre Sea Island that is maintained as a natural refuge and intimate residential community. The island is home to the Colleton and Chechessee Nature Preserves, which protect more than 1,100 acres of unique coastal habitats under the supervision of Spring Island Trust. More than 600 species of native plants are showcased throughout the island’s coastal topography, including majestic live oaks. Residential resort amenities include an award-winning golf course, an equestrian center and sports complex, and a network of more than 300 hiking trails. An annual summer camp is held at the island for children and youth, featuring activities such as an annual shark fishing tournament.

Wadmalaw Island

Wadmalaw Island is connected to mainland South Carolina via bridge and spans an area of 10 by six miles near Church Creek and the North Edisto River. The island is noted for its historic attractions, including the Charleston Tea Plantation, the United States’ only operating team plantation, which produces over 320 types of Camellia sinensis tea and offers free daily visitor tours. The Firefly Distillery is the state’s largest distillery, noted for its production of sweet tea vodka, and is home to a tasting room and an outdoor indie music recording venue. Other attractions include the Ambrose Family Farm, which harvest vegetables year-round and offers a seasonal picking orchard.

Waties Island

Waties Island is an undeveloped coastal barrier island that is used as an educational facility by Coastal Carolina University. The island’s Anne Tilghman Boyce Coastal Reserve spans a portion of the island near its Cherry Grove Beach and conducts graduate, undergraduate, and independent marine research. Field workshops for K-12 students and adult groups are offered periodically at the reserve, led by college faculty educators. Indigenous artifacts are preserved on the island, including ceramics and burial mounds. The island is also accessible via boat for independent visitors and kayaking tour groups showcasing local populations of bottlenose dolphins and loggerhead sea turtles.

• 1. Pawleys Island, South Carolina
• 2. Charleston, South Carolina
• 3. Greenville, South Carolina
• 4. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
• 5. Spartanburg
• 7. Kiawah Island
• 8. Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, Beaufort
• 9. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
• 10. Mauldin
• 11. Florence
• 12. Rock Hill, South Carolina
• 13. North Charleston
• 14. Huntington Beach State Park
• 15. Caesars Head State Park
• 16. Congaree State Park, South Carolina
• 17. Falls Park on the Reedy
• 18. Hunting Island State Park
• 19. Sea Pines Forest Preserve
• 20. Clemson
• 21. Angel Oak Tree, Charleston
• 22. Litchfield Beach
• 23. Columbia
• 24. Hunting Island Lighthouse for Couples
• 25. Georgetown

More South Carolina Getaways:

Resources: South Carolina Tourism , National Parks , State Parks

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25 Best South Carolina State Parks

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Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

17 Best Places to Visit in South Carolina (+Unique Vacation Spots)

December 30, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

If you’re planning a trip and looking for the best places to visit in South Carolina, then look no further! We have 17 of the best places to visit, as well as some very unique vacation spots to check out while you’re there. South Carolina is a very unique state with a rich history, gorgeous cities, and lots of unique and fun options when it comes to vacationing here.

Our list has some stunning cities that we love, nature you don’t want to miss, and some of the most instagrammable places you’ll need to snap pics of while visiting. South Carolina is full of history and amazing scenic views, and this list is too! Some of these vacation spots will teach you the rich history of The Palmetto State, and others have some of the most beautiful, breathtaking views.

We hope you’re going to find your new favorite South Carolina vacation spot on this list!

Cypress Gardens

This 170-acre preserve and garden in Mancks Corner is a great vacation spot if you’re looking to escape and enjoy nature. Cypress Gardens has to be one of the prettiest places to visit in South Carolina, and you can’t miss the 80-acre tupelo swamp and bald cypress trees.

There are boats to rent and foot trails to just enjoy the peacefulness here. If you’re a fan of romantic movies, you may recognize the swamp from a scene in “The Notebook.” Rent a boat and take a ride through the swamp, and we think you’ll love Cypress Gardens and know why it’s one of the best places to visit in South Carolina.

Where to Stay: Lakefront Home

Rainbow Row in Charleston

Rainbow Row is an iconic spot in Charleston, and these 13 colorful, historic homes are something you have to see! These colorful houses have all been renovated and restored, and make for beautiful photos, and are, of course, totally instagrammable! They were all first built around 1740, and since they were renovated and repainted in the 1930s, they have been a very popular tourist destination.

The 13 houses that makeup Rainbow Row are located on East Bay Street, north of Tradd Street and south of Elliott Street. If you’re visiting Charleston, you can’t miss these houses, and this is one of the most beautiful places in South Carolina. Rainbow Row is on our list of unique things to do in Charleston , and we think you’re going to love visiting these stunning little houses.

Where to Stay: Emeline

If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you’ve stepped right into a “Lord of the Rings” movie, then you need to visit the Angel Oak. This live Southern Oak is located in Angel Oak Park on Johns Island and is believed to be between 400 and 500 years old.

The Angel Oak has survived many natural disasters, including several hurricanes, and is an amazing sight to behold. The tree is 66.5 feet tall, and 28 feet in circumference. The largest branch is almost 200 feet long and this tree alone offers about 17,000 square feet of shade.

Angel Oak Park is also rumored to be haunted by ghosts, and others have spotted angels around the tree. Not only is this one of the best places to visit in South Carolina, but also one of the most unique places to visit too.

Where to Stay: The Sleepy Shack

Fred W. Symmes Chapel

Fred W. Symmes Chapel is one of the buildings at the YMCA Camp Greenville in Cleveland, South Carolina. While this main seem like a weird place for us to recommend for you to go, just one trip here will tell you why the chapel is more commonly referred to as the “Pretty Place.”

This chapel sits upon a mountaintop and offers the most unbelievable views. You can see out across the valley and other mountains and catching golden hour here is magnificent. Even though getting up to the mountain is quite the drive, everyone who visits says it’s absolutely worth it.

Where to Stay: Kanuga Inn & Lodging

Table Rock State Park

If you love leaf-peeping and fall foliage, then you have to visit Table Rock State Park in the fall. This 3083-acre park is located at the edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains and has the most epic fall foliage for viewing the seasonal color changes. It’s on our list of the best places to catch fall foliage in South Carolina .

There are two trails here to walk on and enjoy nature and see the leaves, Foothills Trail Park and Pinnacle Mountain Trail. Table Rock State Park is also home to the tallest mountain in South Carolina, Pinnacle Mountain. If you plan on visiting Pickens County or will be near it, you need to make time to visit Table Rock State Park. This is one of the best places to visit in South Carolina, and it’s definitely a beautiful choice for sightseeing in South Carolina.

Where to Stay: Gorgeous Peaceful Cabin

Isle of Palms

Isle of Palms is a city in Charleston County, and is a small, quaint town that you need to visit while in South Carolina. It’s a barrier island on the coast of South Carolina and offers 7 miles of sandy beach with 57 public beach access paths. Don’t forget to check out our list of the best Islands In South Carolina if you want to explore more!

This little town has less than 5000 people as permanent residents and is definitely more of a vacation town. There are lots of vacation homes, resorts, and plenty of beach activities to do while on vacation here. We think you’ll love Isle of Palms, and it’s a great beach vacation spot in South Carolina. This is truly one of the best beach towns in South Carolina!

Where to Stay: The Palms Oceanfront Hotel

Sullivan’s Island

Sullivan’s Island is another section of Charleston County and is a small town and island. It’s located at the entrance to the Charleston Harbor and is even smaller than its neighbor Isle of Palms. A bridge connects Sullivan’s Island to Isle of Palms as well. This is truly one of the Best Weekend Getaways In South Carolina!

There are less than 2000 people as residents here, and it’s a very affluent island. It’s a great choice for a beach getaway, especially since it’s so quaint. Sullivan’s Island also has a very rich history that’s worth exploring while here, and that’s why it’s one of the best places to visit in South Carolina and one of our favorite vacation spots in South Carolina as well.

Where to Stay: Beautiful Sullivan’s Island Home

Camellias Champagne Bar

If you’re looking for a unique place to visit in South Carolina, then you need to go to Camellia’s Ladies Bar. This is the first and only bar that’s been inspired by the concept of the Charlestonian woman. This is a gorgeous, instagrammable pink-themed champagne bar located in the Hotel Bennett in Charleston.

The champagne lounge offers champagne-inspired cocktails, desserts, and afternoon tea. They are most famous for their signature Camellia’s Cake – a light lemon and strawberry cream dessert. Camellia’s is perfect for a ladies night, special occasion, bachelorette weekend. Do note, there is a dress code here, as well as reservations are required for tea services and brunch.

This beautiful, plush champagne bar is certainly one of the most beautiful places in South Carolina and one of the best places to visit in South Carolina, and it’s also on our list of the best places to visit in Charleston .

Where to Stay: Stunning House in Prime

Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area

If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful places to see in South Carolina, you need to visit Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area. Here there’s over 11,000 acres of wildlife, forest, streams, and waterfalls. It’s home to one of the most beautiful waterfalls, and during fall this area has some of the best autumnal viewing.

“Mountain Bridge” is actually a piece of land that connects two of the state parks, Table Rock State Park and Poinsett Park. This park and the wilderness area is great for nature lovers and lovers of outdoor activities – the park is perfect for hiking, leaf-peeping, camping, and fishing.

Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area is located in Cleveland, and since it’s in between two state parks, we think it’s one of the most beautiful places to see in South Carolina.

Where to Stay: Spectacular Views

Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway

South Carolina has no shortage of scenic views and beautiful nature. And the Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway is no exception. It’s a 130-mile scenic byway that runs parallel to the North Carolina border.

From the byway, you have access to over 120 different waterfalls and mountains, as well as some of the most stunning views in the state. It only takes three hours to drive the entire byway, and it follows Route 11 through 5 different counties. You don’t want to miss the byway and the gorgeous nature all around it, and we think you’ll agree that this is one of the best places to visit in South Carolina.

Where to Stay: River Front Cottage

Greenville is the 6th largest city in South Carolina, and is located halfway between Atlanta, Georgia and Charlotte, North Carolina. Greenville is located along Interstate 85 and is one of the best South Carolina vacation spots.

Greenville regularly hosts theater groups, major concerts, and lots of popular annual festivals. The city is full of museums, the arts, and historic sites. When visiting Greenville, you don’t want to miss Falls Park on the Reedy, the Greenville Zoo, and the Greenville County Museum of Art.

Because of all the history and art here, Greenville is one of the best places to go in South Carolina. You’ll be able to visit the Blue Ridge Mountains and the floating symposium bridge as well here, and the number of things to do in Greenville makes it one of the best places to visit in South Carolina.

While visiting, be sure to check out the best restaurants in Greenville !

Where to Stay: The Westin Poinsett Greenville

Issaqueena Falls

One hour west of Greenville is Issaqueena Falls. It’s located near Walhalla, and is a unique type of South Carolina tourist attraction.

Issaqueena Falls is a 100-foot cascade waterfall that you can’t miss. It’s just $5 cash to get in, and you want to park at Stumphouse Tunnel Park and walk the 15 minutes to the falls. The falls are surrounded by history – there are lots of railroad tunnels leftover from the Civil War, as well as lots of Native American history to learn while visiting the park.

This is one of the best places to visit in South Carolina if you’re looking to learn a little bit more about the history, and to catch a beautiful waterfall. Issaqueena Falls is on our list of the most beautiful waterfalls in South Carolina too!

Where to Stay: Lofts over Main

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is one of the most famous places to visit and is a popular vacation destination in South Carolina. This is a resort town located on the barrier island in Beaufort County. It’s also conveniently located just 20 miles from Savannah, Georgia, making it a great choice for day trips.

There are so many amazing places to see, make sure to check out our Favorite Beaches In Hilton Head!

Hilton Head offers 12 miles of Atlantic Ocean beachfront, and there are many parks and public access beaches to enjoy. This resort town is very popular for golf and vacationing. There are over 20 resorts and hotels here to stay at, including Disney’s Hilton Head Resort. If you’re looking for a great beach vacation getaway, this is one of the most fun places to go in South Carolina.

While visiting Hilton Head, check out some of our favorite places to grab a bite to eat !

Where to Stay: Mariott’s Barony Beach Club

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a coastal city in South Carolina, with a 60-mile stretch of beach known as the “Grand Strand.” This is a traditional beach town, with lots of restaurants, hotels, vacation homes, and shopping. It’s a great place for family locations and is very touristy.

You will also want to check out our list of the Best Beaches In Myrtle Beach!

You can just lounge on the beach and get in the ocean here, but you can also take advantage of all the other tourist attractions here as well. There are waterparks, the Sky Wheel, Ripley’s Believe It or Not, Wonderworks, and a Hollywood Wax Museum. Don’t forget to check out some of the best things to do in Myrtle Beach during your visit!

You don’t want to miss out on Myrtle Beach if you’re looking for the quintessential beach vacation, and it’s definitely one of the best places to visit in South Carolina. And you don’t want to miss the best restaurants here ; you don’t want to get stuck eating awful tourist food!

Where to Stay: Ocean Dream Vacation

Folly Beach

Folly Beach is a city on Folly Island, located in Charleston. It’s called the “Edge of America” by locals and is a charming small town. The island is rich with history, and a great place to visit for Southern food and those looking for a little more of an eclectic and less touristy beach town.

Folly Beach is known for its surfing, and the surf spot The Washout – which is also known as “Hollywood.” 10 Street and the Folly Beach Pier are also popular for visiting and for surfing.

This is a cute little beach town, popular for vacationing. It’s very different from the other beach towns, and that makes it one of the best places to visit in South Carolina.

Where to Stay: Dog-Friendly Beach Home

St Helena Island

St Helena Island is part of the Beaufort Sea Islands, and this is the place to visit to learn the rich history of the lowcountry life and the Gullah Geechee people. St Helena Island offers a glimpse of what lowcountry life used to look like, as well as what it’s like today.

The island is home to the Penn Center – which was one of the first schools for children of freed slaves. The Penn Center is one of the most important African American historical and cultural institutions in America and is a can’t miss when visiting St Helena Island.

The island is full of great restaurants, and since shrimping and fishing are part of everyday life here, you’re sure to find some of the freshest seafood around. The island has beautiful parks and trails to visit, as well as Gullah Tours and Gullah/lowcountry events throughout the year. The uniqueness of this island makes it one of the best places to visit in South Carolina, and we think you’ll learn a lot while visiting here.

Where to Stay: Modern, Waterfront Home

Huntington Beach State Park

Located on Murrells Inlet, Huntington Beach State Park has over 2500 acres of park for visitors to enjoy. There’s 3 miles of beach for swimming, sunning, fishing, and relaxing as well as almost 200 campsites.

But what truly makes Huntington Beach State Park one of the best places to visit in South Carolina is that it’s THE park for bird watching! Over 300 species of birds have been spotted here, and that’s thanks to the unique makeup of this park. There is a salt marsh, tidal waters, forest, freshwaters, marshes, and the beach all in one place. Mullet Pond is one of the best areas here to spot birds from.

What makes this such a unique place to visit in South Carolina is that we don’t recommend you visit here during warmer months like almost every other place on this list – you want to visit this park in the winter! That’s the best time to bird watch and see the wildlife here. During winter you’ll be able to see many different types of waterfowl, including several species of ducks, herons, and even eagles.

Where to Stay: Marshfront Million Dollar View

We hope that you found some places to visit in South Carolina on this list, and that your next trip will include one or more of these unique places in South Carolina. Whether you’re interested in the beach, history, or natural beauty, this state has a lot to offer and there’s something for everyone.

Are you planning a trip to one of the best places to visit in South Carolina now? Or is one of your favorites already on our list? Let us know in the comments!

Reader Interactions

[…] There’s so much to do it’s pretty hard to narrow down the best, but that’s what we’ve done here for you, with our careful selection of fun things to do in Greenville. In fact, we love Greenville so much it made our list of best places to visit in South Carolina! […]

Home » Travel Guides » United States » South Carolina (SC) » 17 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in South Carolina

17 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in South Carolina

South Carolina , The Palmetto State, offers some of the most beautiful and spectacular sights and places to visit! Just browse through these awesome pictures and be amazed by it’s beauty.

1. Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is one of South Carolina’s most beautiful locations, boasting rich historical importance and a wide range of cultural attractions. The island, named after the man who discovered it, Captain William Hilton, has 12 miles of beaches and has developed into a popular holiday destination.

The Hilton Head Choral Society, the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina and many community festivals are among the top-class cultural options on offer on the island today. More than 1,500 domestic and international wines are tasted at the island’s WineFest event, while Hilton Head is a golfer’s paradise with 24 great courses to choose from.

2. Cypress Gardens

A massive blackwater bald cypress/tupelo swamp is the centerpiece of Cypress Gardens, a huge preserve and gardens located at Moncks Corner in South Carolina. Foot paths lead visitors throughout the gardens, while there are also flat-bottom boats available to take trips in the swamp.

Attractions at the gardens also include Butterfly House and an Aviary, as well as a Swamparium with local venomous snakes, native and exotic fish and siren salamanders.

3. Morris Island

Morris Island is another of South Carolina’s important historical sites. While the island is uninhabited, it acted as a vital strategic defense point in the Civil War. Morris Island Lighthouse is one of the few landmarks on Morris Island, standing at the south side of Charleston Harbor .

Over the years land erosion has reduced the size of the island, so time may well be running out to appreciate its rugged unspoiled beauty. The Thriller Charleston high speed boat trip is an exciting journey that travels close to Morris Island.

4. Lee Falls

The stunning Lee Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in the South, standing at 75-feet. The waterfall can be found close to Walhalla in Oconee County, but hikers will have to navigate a natural trail, with the walk likely to take between one and two hours to complete.

The trek is usually accessible between March and October depending on the weather and the trip is well worth it as Lee Falls is definitely one of the most beautiful locations in South Carolina.

5. Rainbow Falls

Even bigger than Lee Falls is Rainbow Falls, an incredible 140-foot drop into Cox Camp Creek. The trail to the falls is around 4.3 miles long and it is difficult, so only experienced hikers should take it on.

The waterfall is technically Camp Greenville property and those wanting to experience it must register at the camp offices before setting off on their trip. Part of the trail involves crossing a creek via a large fallen tree, so this is not for the faint-hearted.

6. Columbia, South Carolina from Finlay Park

• Columbia, South Carolina from Finlay Park

7. Congaree National Park

A designated Wilderness Area, Congaree National Park is one of South Carolina’s most unspoiled and natural sights. Camping is available, but many will head to the Harry Hampton Visitor Center to learn about the rich history of the park.

The Boardwalk Loop is a highlight of the park, taking visitors through Congaree National Park’s swampy environment. Thrillseekers could also enjoy a canoe trip down Cedar Creek during their time inside the park’s grounds.

8. Hilton Head Island

9. Swan Lake

All eight species of swan – Whistlers, Bewick’s and Trumpeters, Royal White Mutes, Black Necks, Australians and Coscorobas – call Swan Lake home. This is the only public place in the United States where all eight species can be seen in their natural habitat. The stunning sunsets at Swan Lake are known throughout South Carolina and beyond.

Swan Lake Iris Gardens also boasts Japanese iris, which are typically in bloom from the middle of May until the start of June. The Iris Festival, which is the oldest festival in South Carolina, is held at Swan Lake.

10. Johns Island

Johns Island is the biggest island in the state, with the incredible Angel Oak Tree one of the most beautiful natural sights in the whole of South Carolina. Some estimates say the tree is 1,500 years old. The island, which has a population of 14,000 people, is a popular spot for dolphin watching, while many horse-related activities take place at Mullet Hall Equestrian Center.

To mark the historical importance of Johns Island, the annual Battle of Charleston reenactment is held. Hundreds of species of birds – including bald eagles, egrets and wild turkeys – live on the island, which is also home to deer, alligators, bobcats and even coyotes.

11. The Battery

Charleston is South Carolina’s oldest city and The Battery is one of its oldest landmarks. The landmark defensive seawall and promenade is so named as it was a coastal defense artillery battery during the Civil War. Today, The Battery provides fantastic views across the coast of South Carolina, from Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse to Fort Sumter and Castle Pinckney.

The Battery is also lined with beautiful antique homes, while nearby White Point Garden is one of Charleston’s most gorgeous places to visit, boasting the 100-year-old Williams Music Pavilion.

12. Isle of Palms

Just 12 miles away from central Charleston is the unparalleled beauty of the Isle of Palms. The barrier island is separated from the mainland of South Carolina by the Intracoastal Waterway.

Isle of Palms is home to a thriving community but visitors will perhaps be most interested by the stunning sunsets that can be enjoyed in this lovely corner of the state. Beach volleyball, golf and tennis are all popular in this sports-minded community too.

13. Caesars Head State Park

Caesars Head State Park is so named due to the eponymous awesome rock formation that dominates the park, but the two-mile Raven Cliff Falls trail is arguably the star attraction. The 420-foot Raven Cliff Falls can be viewed from two publicly accessible overlooks on a suspension bridge, providing superb views.

Trailside camping and hiking are both popular in the park, while aside from the giant Raven Cliff Falls there are five further waterfalls to be enjoyed at this site.

14. Old Sheldon Church

The ruins of Old Sheldon Church are a must-visit for anyone traveling through South Carolina, the stark beauty of the ruined church building providing a sharp contrast to the stunning scenery. Prince William’s Parish Church was one of the first Greek-Revival structures in the United States when it was built, but the pre-Revolutionary church has now lain in ruins for dozens of years.

15. Columbia State House

Dating back over 150 years old, the Columbia State House is one of the most beautiful buildings in the whole of South Carolina. The Greek Revival style building hosts a number of important monuments, including the African-American History Monument and the Confederate Monument, as well as monuments to important American figures such as President George Washington. Due to the significance of the Columbia State House, it has been made a National Historic Landmark.

16. UFO Welcome Center

Possibly the most unusual tourist destination in South Carolina is the UFO Welcome Center in Bowman. The centerpiece of the attraction is a 42-foot-wide flying saucer made out of a mix of materials including plastic, fiberglass and wood. Visitors can even enter the UFO via a powered ramp, with the center without a doubt one of the most unique days out available in the state.

17. Huntington Marsh

Found at Murrells Inlet, Huntington Marsh is one of South Carolina’s most beautiful natural landscapes. Tourists flock to visit the Murrells Inlet Marshwalk, a short boardwalk boasting a number of superb restaurants.

Murrells Inlet is famously known as the Seafood Capital of South Carolina, with the area also home to a series of stunning golf courses too. Atalaya, Richmond Hill and Murrells Inlet Historic District are all listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

17 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in South Carolina:

• Hilton Head Island
• Cypress Gardens
• Morris Island
• Rainbow Falls
• Congaree National Park
• Johns Island
• The Battery
• Isle of Palms
• Caesars Head State Park
• Old Sheldon Church
• Columbia State House
• UFO Welcome Center
• Huntington Marsh

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Charleston Chevron

The 21 Best Things to Do in Charleston

By Allston McCrady

People gravitate to Charleston for many reasons: its buzzing restaurants , eclectic art scene, curb-appeal homes, and proximity to the water—not to mention the rich history and overall southern charm. Those components all combine to make it one of our readers' favorite cities year after year. Here, we've combined them all into our list of the best activities and the top spots to hit the next time you're there—spanning old and new, we've got all the essentials that will ensure you remember your trip to this Lowcountry gem, pay homage to its past, and have plenty of souvenirs to bring home. Whether it's your first visit or your tenth, you'll never run out of new and exciting activities to try in this city—from fine art museums and live music to the meals and hotels not to miss. These are the best things to do in Charleston.

Read our complete Charleston travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated since its original publish date.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Gibbes Museum of Art Arrow

This stately Beaux Arts building in the heart of downtown Charleston houses a permanent art collection spanning four centuries. You can browse the museum shop on the ground floor at no cost (a nice way to duck the weather), or pay to head upstairs for an immersive view of Charleston’s artistic past and present. The Gibbes is not a huge museum: you could walk through it in under an hour, but it’s better to linger, to savor your favorites, and to read the insightful commentary. Not all paintings are Charleston-centric in subject matter, but as a whole they tell a Charleston story: a pastel portrait dated 1711 created by America’s first known female artist; aristocratic oils depicting Colonial residents in silk and lace finery; ornate silver monogrammed teapots hammered with palmetto imagery for a wealthy Antebellum patron; glazed stoneware hand-signed by its enslaved maker. There are watercolors and etchings from Charleston’s 1920s and 1930s artistic “renaissance,” sweetgrass pieces fashioned by Gullah weavers, and the vivid and surreal paintings of celebrated local artist Jonathan Green. 

Bluegrass Brunch at High Cotton Arrow

Brunch at High Cotton restaurant is a hot ticket—reservations recommended, unless you manage to beat the church crowd and stampede there early. It’s a convivial place divided into four separate dining areas: a cozy, darkly paneled bar where the bluegrass players set up, a rear “French Quarter” room opening to a patio, the more formal “East Bay Room” (the quietest seating, musically), and the grand, sunny main dining room surrounded by street-facing windows. The food is a smorgasbord of southern flavor—fittingly, as brunch is should be an indulgent ritual–and highlights include crispy fried oysters, buttermilk fried chicken over Belgian waffles, and the like. Meat lovers go for steak & eggs (twin filet mignon) or the burger with sunny-side-up egg and béarnaise. Bring your family (cinnamon rolls and beignets for kids). Bring your friends. Tap your toes to the upright bass, and feel your mood lift.

Self-Guided Walking Tour Arrow

Sure, you could hop on a horse carriage , or into a pedicab, or join an official walking tour, all excellent ways to explore the city. But sometimes you want to explore at will, without a historical lecture in your ear, and the best way to do that is on foot. This is a walking tour that clocks in at just under two miles in length, and it's a must-do for anyone visiting Charleston. Start at Waterfront Park , whose pier juts out into the harbor, to scope out the original Colonial city wall, then make your way to the East Bay, where you might just catch a regatta in progress. Ogle over the live oaks at White Point Gardens, and walk south to north on Legare (pronounced Lah-GREE) for the best vantage points of what are arguably Charleston's most beautiful homes—and stop at 14 Legare, the "Pineapple Gates House" for pics. End at Goat.Sheep.Cow , where you can have them arrange a picnic spread that you can take to nearby Washington Square, and feast on expertly curated cheese under the shade of a live oak tree.

Center for Birds of Prey Arrow

Up the coastal highway sits an extraordinary sanctuary for birds of prey, a non-profit that takes in injured eagles, falcons, owls, hawks, pelicans, etc., treats and releases them. Clearly the staff and volunteers have hearts of gold and perform an essential service, but luckily for the public, it’s also a captivating place to visit. Eighteen miles northeast of Charleston, you pull off at the giant metal bird sign, where a winding dirt road leads you back, deep into the maritime forest, to the preserve. You learn about threats to different avian species worldwide, about breeding and reintroduction programs, about migratory instincts and built-in sonar and other trivia. Meanwhile, wild red-tailed hawks and bald eagles pass high overhead. Education Director Stephen Schabel says that his record for bald eagle sightings in a single day was forty!—and that if he doesn’t spot at least eight, he’s doing something wrong.

Jahnavi Bhatt

Tony Perrottet

Olivia Morelli

Federica Bocco

Two Sisters Tours Arrow

These two sisters, whose family has been in Charleston for seven generations, know the city better than almost anyone. Mary Helen Dantzler and Therese Smythe retired from careers as lawyers, then followed in their mother’s footsteps (a venerable tour guide herself). If you book a tour, you’ll get one sister or the other. They don’t work in tandem. They tried that once, but you know how sibling dynamics go. So they work solo. You can join a group tour for $25 per person by signing up on their website, or call to arrange a private tour for a higher fee. We gathered in Washington Square for roughly a two-hour walk through the cobblestone streets and hidden alleys of Charleston. For a balanced, local’s introduction to Charleston, from grand houses to former slave quarters, this is it.

The Caviar Bar at Zero George Arrow

Boutique hotel Zero George is known for the epicurean wizardry of its executive chef, Vinson Petrillo. But while many come for the tasting menu at the hotel’s ground floor restaurant, The Caviar Bar is something separate and exclusive. By reservation only, you’ll walk through wrought-iron gates into the garden courtyard, up the steps of the beautifully restored 1804 house, to an open piazza, where you are led to your marble-topped table. Flickering votives, ornate banisters, birdsong, palm trees and maples, all set the scene, while soft jazz crooners set the mood. This is an impress-your-mate, impress-your-date spot for sure: cozy, posh, romantic, refined. With only two seatings per evening, you share the veranda with a handful of other well-dressed couples, some of them guests of the hotel, maybe even the devoted local couple who comes weekly. It’s not really intended for the pre-theater crowd (even though the Gaillard Auditorium is a block away) because you really shouldn’t rush the experience to make a show on-time

High Wire Distilling Arrow

High Wire, Charleston's first distillery since prohibition, has been drawing people in with its distinctive spirits and  cypress-paneled tasting room, and a tour is a fantastic way to take in everything it has to offer. Each tour is limited to 16 people, and they fill frequently. You’ll get a close look at a succession of custom mills and gleaming tanks, including a giant copper pot still with a Jules Verne-style window. You’ll learn the science behind milling, mashing, heating, agitating, fermenting, and distilling—the almost magical process that turns liquid to vapor and then into liquid again. For the grand finale, you get to sample the artisanal hooch in the tasting room, either as flights or in cocktails designed for you to replicate easily back home. For a full tour of the distillery floor, reservations are highly recommended. Pro tip: walk-ins can opt for an abbreviated tour from the comfort of their bar stool.

Afternoon Tea at Hotel Bennett Arrow

This is a grand hotel, so naturally there are multiple restaurant concepts onsite for fresh variety. La Pâtisserie is a sunny and gorgeous space for morning coffee, tea, smoothies, and pastries by French Pastry Chef Rémy Fünfrock, plus daily artisanal sandwiches and desserts galore (try the strawberry sponge cake). Rooftop lounge Fiat Lux is great for afternoon and evening cocktails (both spirited and non) plus charcuterie boards, elevated nibbles, and some pretty amazing rosemary duck fat fries. Perhaps the most over-the-top experience is Hotel Bennett’s weekend Afternoon Tea (by reservation), a fantastic ritual that unfolds in the ground floor oval Camellias Bar, named so because you are literally surrounded by glittering wallpapered accents of giant camellias. A jacketed server pours flights of sparkling rosé at the flower-studded bar, then walks across softly-hued pink marble to deliver towers of savory canapés to each table, followed by another tower of sweets prepared by the aforementioned French pastry chef—all washed down with your choice of a wide selection of leaf teas and herbal infusions. Plus the bar moonlights as a swanky destination for champagne, oysters, and caviar.

Cypress Gardens Arrow

Those of you who remember the romantic rowing scene from The Notebook , or the haunting swamp hideout for Revolutionary hero Francis Marion in Mel Gibson’s The Patriot , have already previewed this singular locale. Hollywood location scouts choose Cypress Gardens for its wildly picturesque blackwater swamp, but also for its well-managed accessibility. For $5, you can let a local guide do the paddling for you as he points out wildlife and historical trivia in a wonderfully thick southern accent. Or you can opt to paddle yourself; just follow the little white arrows that suggest a route around the vast bog. Don’t worry if your boat bounces off a cypress tree or two (it’s hard to steer clear of them all). Duck as you pass under two walking bridges, and keep your eyes out for seasonal birds, alligators, and turtles who have crawled out to sun themselves. Before or after you boat, you should walk at least part of the 3.5-miles of trails encircling the water. It’s beautiful any time of year—each month features different fascinations: camellia blooms and bald eagles in winter, azaleas and wild violets in spring, lily pads and booming frog choruses and droning cicadas in summer, rust-colored foliage and screech owls in fall, plus the egrets and otters.

The Charleston Museum Arrow

As museums go, there’s nothing stuffy or old-school about this one, even though it just celebrated its 250th year of existence. The formidable modern structure houses relics from Charleston’s past, and weaves a story from the 18th century to the present. Visitors wander through history, both cultural and natural, listening to recordings by locals. It’s a great place to ground yourself, and to catch your breath in the museum’s restful inner courtyard.

Ibu Movement Arrow

Like magic, a small street-front doorway and single staircase serve as a portal to 50 different countries. Textiles from 50 countries, that is, but you feel transported. The one-of-a-kind, second-floor boutique was born of founder Susan Hull Walker’s passion for craftsmanship (she weaves), for travel, and a mission to empower female artisans around the world. Ibu is an Indonesian-Malay term honoring women. So when you buy the thing you never knew you needed and suddenly can’t live without, you are not only giving a deferential bow to its maker, you're also doing a small part to help disrupt poverty and fund financial independence for a global sister.

Sullivan's Island Beach Arrow

Located at the mouth of the Charleston Harbor, the beaches on this island are ones that have been loved for generations, as is evidenced by some of the gingerbread cottages in the historic part of town. But what makes these beaches special, compared to Charleston's other beaches , is their wide expanse of sand, peaceful waves (because of sandbars), and natural paths through vegetation that not only make you feel as if you're stepping back in time, but protect the shoreline during storms and build a sense of anticipation for that first glimpse of blue water.

Citrus Club Arrow

Citrus Club serves well-curated small plates and fanciful cocktails to adults only (21-and-up). You don’t have to be a guest of the club's home at The Dewberry Hotel to access the it, but you will need to check in with the concierge by the elevator to receive a temporary keycard granting you access to the sky. The 8th floor elevator door spills you into a pristine white lobby hung with local artist Douglas Balentine’s charcoal beach figures. A host leads you to your table. While the indoor space and velvet bar stools are terrifically chic, the outdoor terrace is Citrus Club’s calling card. Guests tuck into posh little nooks separated by potted olive trees, lemons, limes, and a smattering of palms. Uninterrupted breezes travel from prevailing corners of a 360-degree view. You can see clear from river to river with a piña colada in hand.

Kiawah Island Golf Resort Arrow

Kiawah Island bills itself as a “stone’s throw” from historic Charleston, S.C. and if so, we'd like to meet the person who can throw that stone. Realistically, the 21-mile drive takes about 45 minutes. The leisurely drive through a tunnel of oaks takes you onto the barrier island which, although close to the mainland, feels worlds away. On your agenda: self-pampering, resort fine dining, tennis, kayaking, and world-class golf. If that sounds about right, Kiawah is well worth a day’s excursion or overnight; The Sanctuary is the only Forbes 5-Star and AAA 5-Diamond hotel in the state.

Robert Lange Studios Arrow

On a typical daytime visit, this gallery and working artist studio feels terrifically spacious and calm, with indie acoustics on the playlist and paintings covering contemporary subjects are on the walls. One dynamic exception occurs on the first Friday of each month, when lots of area galleries (see King Street for more) stay open into the evening, offering up drinks and hors d’oeuvres for what Charlestonians call the “Art Walk." On that night, RLS is elbow-to-elbow indeed, with easily a thousand people passing through to sip wine and discuss paintings, or to play with the interactive “stack your own rocks” table upstairs.

Preservation Society of Charleston Arrow

If you seek an authentic Charleston keepsake, this store off King Street has you covered. Think of it as a souvenir shop with taste and soul. Every item they source is locally made, with the exception of books that may have been published elsewhere, and pecans from a farm two hours north. The independent boutique was founded by and is still run by one of Charleston’s prominent preservation groups, thus the name. After your initial walk-through, head to the back room for comfy couches, old wood floors and tapestry rugs, a gaggle of great books to peruse, and air-conditioning! 

King Street Arrow

Although more chain stores have moved into this multi-block shopping stretch in the last few years, it's still a walker's paradise. If you love to avoid looking like "everyone else," then get fully outfitted at Hampden Clothing, Worthwhile or Ibu Movement , then accessorize with a blingy bauble (heirloom, preferably) from Croghan's Jewel Box or Joint Venture Estate Jewelers. Scent thyself with high-end spritzes from Cos Bar or Blue Mercury, shop for silver and the coffee table or curio to display it at George C. Birlant or the other antique shops, then accessorize your home with a piece of artwork from a variety of galleries, ranging from Hagan Fine Art to classics from the Audubon Gallery.

Mrs. Whaley's Garden Arrow

Unlike Charleston's historic homes, the city's private gardens are rarely open to the public, with throngs of visitors buying tickets for bi-annual house and garden festivals and tours. But here’s a secret: Emily Whaley’s garden at 58 Church Street stays open year-round, on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons. And it's just the way Mrs. Whaley would've wanted it. In 1997, the feisty octogenarian known as “Cheeka” to friends and family wrote a book of musings, opinions, gardening thoughts, and memories, all woven together into a conversational memoir titled Mrs. Whaley and Her Charleston Garden . The book made the New York Times bestseller list, and 20 years on, the author's private oasis is still attracting visitors. Slip your $10 through the front door mail slot, then swing open the gate and walk back: you'll feel the breeze rustle through shade plants, see the bumblebees nudge climbing roses, and the acanthus sending up spiky purple blooms.

Coastal Expeditions Arrow

Greater Charleston is both surrounded by and interlaced with saltwater marshes, and kayaking is a great way to appreciate that. You can either rent kayaks (singles or doubles) or standup paddle boards to venture solo (with tips on where to go), or book guided tours of varying lengths with Coastal Expeditions. It is quite common to see surfacing dolphins feeding in pairs and groups, with the occasional summer manatee making an appearance.

Charleston Bike Taxi Arrow

Why Uber when you can take a bike taxi? They're an open-air way of being chauffeured from Point A to Point B, with unobstructed views of the city. We can all agree that fewer cars on the road are a good thing. Less noise, less pollution, quieter streets. Ten years ago, there weren’t that many pedicabs in Charleston. Now there are three companies. We like this one because of its professionalism, polish, promptness, and easy-to-spot telltale yellow cabs. You can flag one down, or call to be picked up.

In the Kitchen with Chef Bob Waggoner Arrow

This is as much dinner party as it is cooking class, visible to the street by a large surround of glass. Chef Waggoner hands you a glass of brut rosé Champagne, and there’s a bit of small talk, but then you get right to it, following his rapid-fire directives. You hone knife skills, learn to “blanche and shock,” to cut on the bias, to score fish and get a proper sear and finish it off in the oven, to caramelize and deglaze, to reduce and emulsify. There’s no published schedule for what you’ll be cooking on any given night. It’s up to the chef, and what looks best at the market that particular day. When we were there that included vermillion snapper on a bed of fennel, shallots, asparagus, green peas, and flat parsley, sautéed in a saffron-orange-butter-white-wine reduction, garnished with sunflower sprouts. Multiple wine pairings are included in the evening’s flat price. 

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23 Best Places To Visit in South Carolina

There is a saying in the United States that South Carolina is full of smiling faces and beautiful places.

Indeed it is true and as South Carolina is the most beautiful state in the United States and the warm hospitality that will be extended to you here will make you come back again and again.

The state is worth a visit as it has a bit of everything – sandy beaches, coastal zones, mountain foothills and so on.

If you are planning a visit to South Carolina with your family or just a solo trip, it is imperative that you know beforehand what places and attractions to see and what can be given a miss.

To make this job easier for you, we have compiled a list of the best places to visit in South Carolina.

Historic District, Charleston

The gracious atmosphere of the Historic District in South Charleston will greet you with open hands.

There are more than 1400 historic homes, churches and old building that line both sides of the street.

You can opt for a carriage ride that will help you understand the history of the place or you can sign up for a walking tour that will help you snatch a peek into some of these buildings.

The 1808 Nathaniel Russell House is included in almost every walking tour as the house has priceless collections of both decorative and fine arts.

There are exhibits at the Old Slave Mart Museum that will give you a history of the place.

Caesars Head State Park

This is a huge state park that spans 13000 acres and affords beautiful views of Georgia. if you love hiking or just want to drive your car to the overlook then this place is perfect for you.

It is an ideal place to explore the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and enjoy the greenery of the state park.

If you are of the adventurous type then you can hike the 77 mile Foothills Trail that starts in Table Rock State Park.

You can avail of the shuttle service which will give you a ride to the trailhead.

Check out this park to see amazing natural views, waterfall, hiking trails and more. You can camp here and get wifi at the park office.

The Plantations of South Carolina

There are more than 2000 Southern plantations that was, at one point of time, operated using slave labour.

Today they serve as important cultural and historical landmarks in the state.

Most of these plantations are located near the coast and not very far from cities like Georgetown, Myrtle Beach and Charleston.

Soak up the history of the state and war beautifully landscaped areas as you walk through the plantations of South Carolina.

There will be a lot of walking involved it on a beautiful sunny day there’s nothing better.

Address:  1776 Mansfield Rd, Georgetown, SC 29440, United States

Myrtle Beach

This is easily the most popular place in the state of South Carolina.

The coast of Myrtle Beach is lined with miles and miles of pristine sand that makes the beach more appealing to the tourists as well as the locals.

Once you are here you can hop on the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel that takes the visitors on a 10 min ride over the beach and boardwalk and don’t miss the musical shows at Carolina Opry.

If you are travelling with kids then you must visit Ripley’s Aquarium and or Broadway at the Beach which is the largest shopping and entertainment centre in the State.

Apart from the mini golf and various rides, you would also love the area around Lake Broadway and the swimming pools at the water parks.

McLeod Plantation Historic Site

We admit that there are more beautiful and larger plantations in South Carolina for you to explore but this 19th century plantation deserves a special mention.

The place is not afraid to hide its past and gives you a real insight into the deep and shocking history of the region.

Apart from the plantation house, there is a 600 year old tree and slave cabins.

You can also take a guided tour of the plantation that is definitely not sugar coated and teaches you how life was for the slaves.

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head is basically a low-country beach town wherein you will never find the glamorous stage shows of the Grand Strand in Myrtle Beach.

The crowd is sparse here and is a perfect place for laid-back relaxation.

There are beautiful bicycling trails at Hilton Head along with options for shopping, dining and the wide sand beaches where you can just lie down and while away the time.

The Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge is a great space for wildlife lovers as you can easily spot some rare and common species from a very close distance.

If you’re not ready for the hustle and bustle of Myrtle Beach you can always check out Hilton Head.

Equally if not more so beautiful and much less crowded.

Greenville Zoo

This relatively large zoo is spread across 14 acres of land and has species like elephants, giraffes and giant tortoises.

The admission rates are not too high and you can get a substantial discount if you are travelling in groups.

This is a good place for the kids to hang around as the specially designed education programs of the zoo are targeted towards them only.

You can come in the early hours and spend a whole day here to have a great time with your family here.

For ticket rates and special offers, you can visit the website of the Greenville Zoo.

Fort Sumter & Charleston Harbor

Fort Sumter was the federal court that guarded Charleston Harbor and was attached by the Confederate forces in April, 1861.

Visiting this area will put you in the same place as the first battle of the American Civil War.

It’s a great place to check out over 4th of July though it is typically crowded during that time.

The National Park Ranger will give you an excellent interpretation of all the events that unfolded here which will make you understand American Civil War much better.

One can visit the ruins of the fort by taking a boat from Visitor Education Center @ Liberty Square.

If you have time in hand, you may opt for the 90 min tour that will take you along the Cooper River right up to the Fort Sumter National Monument.

This tour fully explains the role of Charleston in the American Civil War.

You can also get a great view of the other forts and the Civil War Prison located at Pinckney Castle.

Soda City Market, Columbia

This is a lively market that is full of local produce, crafts and food that are found in the state.

Held in the state capital, Columbia, the Soda City Market is open on every Saturday irrespective of the weather.

The Main Street of the town is filled with lots of people who are eager to shop, eat and even pet a dog!

When you are here do not forget to sample the boiled peanuts which is basically a state snack.

Huntington Beach State Park

The Huntington Beach State Park is easily the best birding place in the state and is home to as many as 300 species.

Alligators can be spotted in the freshwater lake of the park.

If you are an art connoisseur then you should enjoy the Atalaya Arts & Crafts Festival that is held every year in the month of September.

Spartanburg Art Museum

If you want to experience great art and culture without shedding a penny for admission fees then you should come down to the Spartanburg Art Museum.

It is open from Tuesday to Saturday (10 am to 5 pm) and you can just walk in and visit the gallery of exhibits.

South Carolina State Museum, Columbia

It is the largest museum in the state of South Carolina with as many as 4 floors of exhibits that cover the natural history, science, technology, art and cultural scene of the state.

The majority of the educational exhibits are hand-on in nature making it fund and interactive.

There is also a planetarium and a science theatre inside the premises.

The South Carolina State Capital Building

The State House in South Carolina is a must-visit place.

It is interesting to note that this highly resilient building survived the Sherman’s March in the Civil War.

However, you will find bronze statues covering the six spots where artillery shells had put a large hole.

The construction of this building started in 1851 but it took a long time to get completed (1907).

The SC General Assembly and the Office of the Governor is housed inside this building.

Riverbanks Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Columbia

The Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is home to more than 2000 animals including exotic species like koala cubs and kangaroo joeys.

There you will be able to explore more than 170 acres of plants and animals from around the world.

The African Plains Exhibit deserve special mention as an artificial African Savanna has been constructed to keep animals like baboons, African lions, zebras, ostriches in their natural habitat.

You can then move on to the Ndoki Forest Area which is basically a sanctuary for meerkats, gorillas and elephants, Komodo dragons and Siberian tigers.

The North American species that are displayed here include Californian Sea Lions and grizzly bear.

Just to add some more fun element, the zoo also has ziplines and botanical garden.

Greenville Main Street

We know that there are hardly any people in this world who love to see real mice in cities but you will have a lot of fun looking for nine bronze mice that is hidden somewhere in downtown Greenville.

All nine are not located in one place; so you will really need to work hard to find them.

After you have spent a considerable time searching for the rodents, you can browse through the different shops and dine at any one of the 100+ restaurants.

You can end your visit to Greenville by visiting the Falls Park which is a waterfall-filled public space.

Lake Hartwell State Recreation Area

Lake Harwell is all about 962 miles of shoreline.

Located just 3 hours from Columbia, Lake Hartwell is a fun place to be with lots of activities on offer.

The good news is that you can even stay inside the state park.

If you had been looking for a peaceful and tranquil location in South Carolina, then you should come down to Lake Hartwell State recreation Area.

Carowinds Amusement Park

One of the largest and most attractive theme park in South Carolina deserves a special mention in this list as this is one place where you can have a real blast.

If you can get hold of any coupons then you can avoid paying the listed website price.

There are a lot of new thrilling rides including the 232 ft tall roller coaster that runs at a massive speed of 75 mph.

Built across the North Carolina and South Carolina state line, visitors can stand in both states at one time and experience a variety of thrill rides.

South Carolina Aquarium

If you are on a vacation in this state then a great way to round off your visit would be to visit the South Carolina Aquarium.

Located in Charleston, the aquarium is one of the most sought-after family destinations.

You can visit the website of the South Carolina Aquarium to know about special offers on ticket prices.

Check out more than 10 aquatic exhibit with a variety of under the sea animals ranging from sharks.

Dupont Planetarium

Opened in 1995, the Dupont Planetarium is a great learning experience for each and every visitor.

It is located within the University of South Carolina at Aiken and is part of the Ruth Patrick Science Education Centre. It is open to the public every Saturday.

The planetarium houses a huge 30 ft dome wherein projected images are displayed for the viewing pleasure of the audience.

There are public showings at different timings and even special programs for school groups.

T.I.G.E.R.S Preservation Station

If you’re an animal lover he’s going to be in North Myrtle Beach check out the preservation station at Barefoot Landing.

It is a free-living tiger exhibit and serves as a fundraising effort for the rarest Tyga on earth, the golden tabby tiger.

You can see the tigers up close and uncaged for free.

Fort Moultrie National Monument

If you are planning on visiting Sullivan’s Island, check out Fort Moultrie. Edgar Allan Poe was stationed here in the 1800s.

South Carolina State Farmer’s Market

Rudy’s will enjoy a wide selection of fresh produce and and number of sociality food shop.

There’s even a 400 square feet outdoor amphitheater, play area for kids, a restaurant, and a 150 square foot exhibition kitchen.

Congaree National Park

Angry swamp is one of the newest national parks in the United States and offers miles of hiking trails along with unique flora and fauna.

Congaree National Park is the 57th and the newest national park of the United States. It is also the only National Park in the State of Carolina.

The interesting thing about this place is that the park gets its name from the Congaree Swamp that surrounds the park.

The ranger-guided walks are the main attraction of the park and if you are coming here with kids then do check out the Junior Ranger program. It is real fun and the kids will simply love it.

This is a great place to walk, hike, or rollerblade on trails while taking in beautiful scenery.

This sums up our list of the best places to visit in South Carolina.

However, don’t be fooled by the number because there are lots of other places in this State which has just lost out or we may have not mentioned here because we thought that these places are actually worth more as attractions.

South Carolina never fails to impress anyone and we also believe that you will fall in love with the state once you come here.

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Kristina Wyatt has a passion for travel and writing that began in high school, when she freelanced for her local newspaper. Since then, she...

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Top South Carolina Attractions

Things to do in south carolina.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• French Quarter
• Charlestowne
• North Central
• James Island
• Upper Concord Street
• City Hall Area
• Downtown Manhattan (Downtown)
• Civic Center
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Broadway at the Beach

2. Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

3. Falls Park on the Reedy

4. Brookgreen Gardens

5. Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

6. Middleton Place

7. Joe Riley Waterfront Park

8. Fort Sumter National Monument

9. Boone Hall Plantation

10. Coligny Beach

11. Hilton Head Distillery

12. Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge

13. Huntington Beach State Park

14. SkyWheel Myrtle Beach

15. The Center for Birds of Prey

16. Angel Oak Tree

17. Hilton Head Island Bike Trails

18. Hunting Island State Park

19. GTS Theatre

20. Barefoot Landing

21. Myrtle Beach

22. Nathaniel Russell House

23. Riverbanks Zoo and Garden

24. The Black Fedora Comedy Mystery Theatre

25. Charleston Tea Garden

26. Hopsewee Plantation

27. Aiken-Rhett House

28. Drayton Hall

29. McLeod Plantation Historic Site

30. Battery & White Point Gardens

What travelers are saying.

Everything you need to know before visiting South Carolina

Nov 2, 2022 • 8 min read

From marsh-lined beaches to urban foodie hubs, there's a lot going on in South Carolina. Here's what you need to know © Getty Images / iStockphoto

South Carolina welcomes everyone with a friendly “hey y’all.” Laidback and relaxed, the Palmetto State is an easy place to visit, with a throng of sunshiney offerings, golden beaches , lazy rivers towered over by bald cypresses, and the tail end of the Blue Ridge.

That said, there are some things that are useful to know before you go. From practicalities such as checking the weather and watching for alligators (seriously!) to etiquette tips such as the proper way to approach a football conversation (very seriously!), here are a few key things to know before traveling to South Carolina .

Planning your trip

Think twice about jeans.

South Carolinians generally dress slightly more formally, though they don’t overdo it. Men generally wear button-down shirts or polos, while women dress in skirts and slacks.

A hat with a brim and sunglasses in summer helps ward off the sun. If you wear a sundress in summer, remember that temperatures tend to drop at night so bring a jacket or sweater (besides, restaurants crank up the A/C).

And if you do wear jeans, dress them up with a blouse and heels (for women) and a button-down shirt (for men).

Book restaurants in advance

You’ll find some of the nation’s best restaurants in South Carolina, notably Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana and Charlie’s Coastal Bistro in Hilton Head, SeaBlue Restaurant & Wine Bar in North Myrtle Beach and The Bluffton Room in Bluffton.

Charleston alone is a hive of culinary expertise, with noted restaurants including Husk , FIG , Bertha’s Kitchen and Stars Rooftop and Grill. It's always wise to make a reservation, especially at upscale restaurants – often a week or more in advance for Friday and Saturday nights.

South Carolina’s best road trips

Etiquette in South Carolina

Tea = sweet tea.

If you order tea in South Carolina, you will be served an icy glass of black tea sweetened just right with sugar or simple syrup (and sometimes lemon). Many southerners claim they were drinking sweet tea before anything else, and a restaurant can’t be considered southern if it doesn’t offer it on the menu.

The historic town of Summerville, just outside Charleston, is said to have invented sweet tea when a group of old soldiers hosted a reunion in town in 1890. Their shopping list included 600 pounds of sugar and 880 gallons of iced tea.

If you don’t have a porch to sip sweet tea, Summerville’s Sweet Tea Trail  – with businesses purveying sweet-tea-inspired specials – is the next best option.

College sports are life

Do not get into a discussion about college football unless you’re prepared to take a side: Clemson Tigers or South Carolina Gamecocks. This serious rivalry between two public universities located only 132 miles apart dates back to political tensions during post-Civil War reconstruction, though today it’s all about football.

The two teams face off at an annual game dubbed the “Battle of the Palmetto State” (unofficially the Palmetto Bowl) in late November, usually Thanksgiving weekend, leading to many discussions at the Thanksgiving dinner table. Tailgating is a time-honored tradition that accompanies every game.

Top things to do in South Carolina

Always says yes to biscuits

Making biscuits is an art form in South Carolina, a time-honored tradition that turns simple flour and fat into rich, steamy, flaky, buttery cakes. The best are made at home, of course, but many restaurants pride themselves on their biscuit craftsmanship.

Some versions are plain, while others are mixed with hot cheese and garlic, served with hot house gravy, or a variety of other delectable ways. Try them at Biscuit Head in Greenville , Clarks’ Inn and Restaurant in Santee or Compton’s Kitchen in West Columbia.

…Or hush puppies

South Carolinian hush puppies are another age-old tradition. A warm, crusty bite of cornmeal goodness, they’re found at fish houses, barbecue joints and traditional southern restaurants.

Sometimes they’re spiked with spices, onions, hot peppers or corn and/or served with dips and creamy sauces. It’s not exactly clear where hush puppies originated.

One story claims a West African man named Romeo Govan who lived on the Edisto River served “red horse bread” at his fish fries – “red horse” was a type of fish common in South Carolina rivers.

The name is another story, though it probably relates to quieting dogs by giving them a little bite to eat. Whichever story you believe, you can’t go wrong trying them at Captain Steve’s in Fort Mill, Flower’s Seafood Company in Edisto Island or Little Pigs Barbecue in Columbia.

Best places to visit in South Carolina

Hot sauce goes on everything

South Carolinians have a thing about hot sauce – you’ll find it spicing up nearly every dish.

Among local sauces, you’ll discover Palmetto Pepper Potions (with flavors including Larynx Lava and Trenholm Venom) and PuckerButt Pepper Company (famed for its Smokin’ Ed’s Carolina Reaper, deemed the world’s hottest hot sauce).

Beware ghost chili sauce, a surprising kick added in many a South Carolina recipe.

This isn’t a sauce, but Blue Moon’s Yep! Shake spice is an all-natural, handcrafted secret out of Spartanburg – a mix of spices that elevates vegetables, meats and, really, anything except ice cream and strawberry shortcake.

South Carolina barbecue is mustard-based

South Carolinians are serious about their barbecue. Generally, you’ll find pork that's been slow-cooked over hardwood. But, as all BBQ aficionados know, the sauce is key.

And in South Carolina, it’s all about the mustard, with a yellow color and tangy flavor. The story goes that German settlers brought mustard with them from their homeland some 250 years ago. Many of the names associated with the South Carolina BBQ business remain German: Bessinger , Sweatman's and Sikes , for starters.

Don’t forget the Blue Ridge

In this mostly flat southern state, it’s easy to forget that the soaring peaks of the Blue Ridge make a brief appearance on its northwestern border.

In fact, here you’ll find the spectacular Blue Ridge Escarpment, a line at which the Blue Ridge plunges toward the undulating foothills of Upstate South Carolina.

You can explore this majestic natural landscape – full of waterfalls, hardwood forests, and crystal-clear lakes – at a variety of parks, including Jones Gap State Park , Caesars Head State Park , and  Table Rock State Park , all within the 10,000-acre Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area.

Another option is to drive the 112-mile Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Byway (SC 11), which traces the edge of the Blue Ridge, showcasing waterfalls, mountain streams, and sweeping mountain vistas.

Hit the links at a state golf course

More than 350 golf courses speckle the state – private, public, and in all price ranges. The two best are Kiawah Island’s Open Course , stretching along the Atlantic Ocean and Hilton Head’s Harbour Town Golf Links – SC’s only annual PGA Tour stop.

But there are plenty of courses to keep you swinging. Many offer golf packages, including accommodations and, in some cases, access to otherwise private locations. Members-only Haig Point on Daufuskie Island , for example, welcomes a limited number of daily guests to the course.

Health and safety in South Carolina

When is hurricane season.

South Carolina does experience hurricanes – it’s best to avoid the coast between late August through October. If you do visit during this time, be sure to have an emergency plan in place and keep abreast of the weather news. Severe storms can also spawn tornadoes and deadly lightning.

Winters are mild, but summers are hot

Thanks to a humid subtropical climate, South Carolina’s winters are relatively mild, especially along the coast (60°F during the day).

It can get close to freezing inland, and it does snow, though generally less than an inch annually. The summers, however, are another story. They are hot, hot, hot and humid – averaging a solid 90°F – with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and dangerous lightning.

Tornado season is generally in early spring, with another peak in November.

Best time to visit in South Carolina

The bugs will eat you alive

Heat and humidity breed swarms of mosquitoes – 61 different species of the small fly live in South Carolina.

Whatever you do, do not forget your bug spray. And wear long sleeves and long pants at dawn, dusk, and twilight (as well as shady areas during the day) when they tend to come out.

Treat ‘gators with respect

Some 100,000 alligators call South Carolina home and they’re not something you want to mess with. Most of the time, they’re harmless – you’ll see them lounging around wetlands (especially at golf courses).

Just don’t get too close, and certainly don’t try to feed them, or swim in waters that are known to be alligator havens. Gator attacks are rare, but they do happen. The general rule is to avoid these lounging reptiles, and if you do come across one, slowly walk away.

Always exercise caution when out

South Carolina is considered a safe place to visit, though, as everywhere, always be aware of your surroundings. Be vigilant when visiting the state’s busy attractions, and don’t leave anything visible in the car that might tempt a break-in.

Places to avoid, especially at night, include Beaufort County, Greenwood County, and Marion County.

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10 Best Places To Retire To In South Carolina

• Hilton Head Island: Retirees can relax on beautiful beaches, play golf, and enjoy a vacation lifestyle with upscale shops and restaurants.
• Beaufort: Retirees can relish in the historic coastal charm of this town, with antebellum architecture, museums, and outdoor activities like boating and fishing.
• Greenville: Experience a lively arts and culture scene in this vibrant city, with art museums, theaters, festivals, and scenic parks like Falls Park on the Reedy.

South Carolina offers some of the best places to retire in the US for those seeking warm weather, southern charm, and a relaxed pace of life. From bustling coastal cities to quaint small towns in South Carolina bursting with charm, the Palmetto State has something for every retiree. Residents can stroll along sandy beaches, explore historic downtowns, take in cultural attractions, enjoy outdoor recreation, and soak up the famous southern hospitality when choosing to retire in South Carolina.

With its low cost of living and tax-friendly retirement policies, South Carolina makes it easy to stretch those retirement savings further. The state also provides excellent healthcare facilities catered toward seniors. Whether someone prefers an active lifestyle or just wants to relax, soon-to-be retirees can discover some of the best places for retirement in South Carolina that let seniors live out their golden years in comfort, beauty, and bliss.

Related: 10 Cozy Towns To Retire To On The East Coast

Hilton Head Island: Enjoy Scenic Beaches And A Vacation Lifestyle Every Day

A resort island with beautiful beaches, golf courses, bike trails, and cultural events..

Hilton Head Island is a popular coastal retreat known for its beautiful beaches (some considered to be the beaches with the clearest waters in South Carolina ), golf courses, and nature preserves. Retirees can enjoy 12 miles of peaceful beaches, 300 tennis courts, 25 golf courses, biking trails, and water sports.

The island's main town Hilton Head has upscale shops and restaurants. Nearby are historic sites, museums, performing arts venues, and festivals. The year-round warm climate, abundance of activities, and laid-back island vibe make Hilton Head Island one of the best retirement spots in South Carolina for those looking for a relaxed pace.

• Population: 38,080
• Cost of Living : $2565
• Share of Population 65+ Years: 38.36%
• Median Home Price : $741,529
• Things to do: Golfing, tennis, enjoying beaches, biking, water sports, shopping

Beaufort: Relish Historic Coastal Charm In This Charming Town

A charming coastal town with a rich history, antebellum architecture, and a thriving arts scene..

Beaufort is another one of the most beautiful places to retire in South Carolina; the charming Beaufort historic district features antebellum mansions, small boutiques, and art galleries that reflect the city's history and culture. Visitors can take guided walking tours to admire the well-preserved 19th-century architecture. The marina allows easy access to boating, fishing, and water sports.

Nearby Hunting Island State Park is one of the best state parks in South Carolina and offers beach relaxation, hiking trails, a lighthouse, and camping. The mild winters, proximity to the water, and stunning historic architecture make Beaufort a special place to retire.

• Population: 13,046
• Cost of Living: 2% below national average
• Share of Population 65+: 25%
• Median Home Price: $369,910
• Things to do: Walking tours, boating, Touring museums
• Scenic Things: Historic downtown, marina , Hunting Island State Park

Greenville: Experience The Arts And A Lively Culture

A vibrant artsy city with a bustling downtown, scenic parks, and a diverse culinary scene..

Greenville is among the best cities in South Carolina to retire to, as it offers a thriving downtown with performing arts, cultural attractions, festivals, shops, and restaurants to keep retirees entertained. Plus, there's Falls Park on the Reedy, which is a 32-acre oasis with gardens, trails, and waterfalls flowing through downtown.

Nearby, the Peace Center Performing Arts Center presents concerts, theater, opera, and dance. The Greenville County Museum of Art features Southern masterpieces. The charming Main Street, lined with boutiques and bistros, offers a lively arts and culture scene for retirees who want an active lifestyle.

• Population: 74,548
• Cost of Living: 9% below national average
• Share of Population 65+ : 14%
• Median Home Price: $296,383
• Things to do: Visit art museums, theaters, music venues, festivals

Related: These Are The Top 10 Inexpensive Places To Retire

Charleston: Soak In Old-World Charm In This Historic City

A historic city with cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, and cultural attractions..

Historic Charleston exudes old-world Southern charm. Most notably, Charleston is known for having the first successful combat submarine built during the Civil War , but it's not just a history buff's choice; it also has a lot for those looking to retire.

Retirees can stroll the lovely streets lined with colonial buildings, churches, and historic homes. Enjoy the city's renowned food scene at one of the award-winning restaurants. Take a harbor boat tour or visit patriotic sites like Fort Sumter. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens offers beautiful nature walks and tours.

Charleston's mild winters, proximity to the coast, and abundance of historic ambiance make it an exceptional retirement destination.

• Population: 153,040
• Cost of Living: 2% lower than the national average
• Share of Population 65+ : 18.2%
• Median Home Price: $528,834
• Things to do: Historic tours, museums, boating

Myrtle Beach: Enjoy Fun In The Sun In This Lively Beach Town

A popular beach town with a lively boardwalk, amusement parks, and shopping outlets..

One of the beautiful beachside towns to retire to on the East Coast , Myrtle Beach is easily one of the best towns to retire to in South Carolina, especially for those seeking warm weather and plenty of family-friendly things to do with the grandkids.

Spend days relaxing on the expansive sandy beaches and swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, and at night, enjoy live music shows, dance clubs, theaters, and tasty seafood restaurants. Don't forget to play golf on one of Myrtle Beach's 100 courses or enjoy shopping and attractions. Active retirees can also join exercise classes, tennis, pickleball, cycling, surfing, and more. Overall, the sunny weather, affordable cost of living, and endless activities make Myrtle Beach one of the best retirement spots in South Carolina.

• Population: 39,162
• Cost of Living: 8% below national average
• Share of Population 65+: 21.3%
• Median Home Price : $301,820
• Things to do: Beach tours, golfing, shopping, shows

Rock Hill: Savor Small-Town Living With Abundant Outdoor Recreation

A small city with a revitalized downtown, outdoor recreation opportunities, and a rich textile heritage..

Rock Hill offers retirees the benefits of small-town living combined with amenities and culture. The charming downtown features unique shops, restaurants, a farmer's market, and a historical museum. The Giordana Velodrome is a premier cycling facility that hosts international competitions. Old Town Bistro offers live music several nights a week.

Active seniors can also enjoy the expansive walking trails through Glencairn Gardens. The low cost of living and sense of community make Rock Hill feel like home for those looking to retire in South Carolina.

• Population: 73,992
• Cost of Living: 10% below national average
• Share of Population 65+: 13.9%
• Median Home Price: $313,281
• Things to do: Shopping, cycling, walking trails

Clemson: Participate In An Active Community Around Clemson University

A college town with a picturesque campus, scenic lakes, and a vibrant sports culture..

Clemson is a college town anchored around the prestigious Clemson University . Retirees can take advantage of the many cultural activities hosted by the university, including concerts, lectures, continuing education classes, and athletics events.

Meanwhile, Lake Hartwell provides boating, fishing, and swimming. The foothills of the extraordinary Blue Ridge Mountains also offer stunning natural scenery. Ultimately, Clemson's low cost of living, mild climate, educated community, and variety of amenities make it appealing for those looking for an active college town for retirement.

• Population: 18,364
• Share of Population 65+: 12.2%
• Median Home Price: $363,968
• Scenic Things: Lake Hartwell , Blue Ridge Mountains

Florence: Discover The Utmost Southern Hospitality

A small city with a rich history, art galleries, and a revitalized downtown..

Florence is yet another one of the best places in South Carolina to retire to, especially since it offers old Southern charm and hospitality. The revitalized downtown features restaurants, boutiques, galleries, a farmers market, and cultural venues.

Residents can also enjoy strolling the Riverfront Park along the scenic Great Pee Dee River or tour the Florence County Museum with exhibits on the region's history and art. Active adults can also join sports leagues, yoga studios, and walking clubs. The warm and welcoming community, along with the affordable cost of living, make Florence a quintessential Southern retirement locale.

• Population: 40,036
• Cost of Living: 13% below national average
• Share of Population 65+: 18.8%
• Median Home Price: $206,291
• Scenic Things: Great Pee Dee River, Riverfront Park

Related: 10 Best Small Towns In The U.S. To Retire To On A Budget

Bluffton: Live An Active Lifestyle In This Scenic Riverfront Town

A quaint town with a historic district, an art scene, and a riverfront park..

Bluffton's riverside location and charming Southern atmosphere make it appealing for retirees seeking natural beauty. Enjoy kayaking and boating along the May River and take in the views along the popular Bluffton Oyster Company dock. The Bluffton Farmers Market features local produce, crafts, and entertainment.

Residents can also enjoy golfing, join sports leagues, or take fitness classes to stay active. Historic homes and progress toward smart growth mix Bluffton's past and future. The scenic landscapes and friendly community create an idyllic lifestyle for retirees.

• Population: 40,403
• Median Home Price: $491,964
• Things to do: Boating, golf, Visit farmers’ market, attend fitness classes
• Scenic Things: May River , historic homes

Aiken: Enjoy Southern Grace And Hospitality In This Equestrian Town

A charming town with an equestrian heritage, historic homes, and beautiful gardens..

This historic town is a fantastic place to retire in South Carolina; Aiken's charming downtown offers boutique shops, galleries, and restaurants housed in historic 19th-century buildings. Interestingly, the area was once a winter colony for wealthy northerners attracted to the mild climate—so it's no surprise that a vibrant equestrian scene centers around polo matches and horse shows, making Aiken one of the slightly more unique South Carolina retirement spots.

In addition, Hopelands Gardens and Rye Patch provide beautiful outdoor spaces to stroll. Retirees can also join lectures at USC Aiken and events held at area museums and performance venues. Aiken's southern small-town feel, equestrian heritage, and historic elegance make it a graceful spot for retirement living.

• Population: 32,076
• Cost of Living: 9% lower than the national average
• Share of Population 65+ : 26.6%
• Median Home Price: $247,743
• Scenic Things: Hopelands Gardens, historic downtown, Horse events

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8 Best Beach Destinations to Retire in for Beautiful Views, Mild Weather, and a Laid-back Vibe

From small towns to big cities, these are the best coastal destinations for retirees.

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There’s something attractive about being near the sea, whether it’s the beautiful view, invigorating air, or childlike fun of splashing in cool water. We almost instinctively choose lakes and oceans for vacations, and scientists believe that proximity to the water offers actual benefits . It’s no wonder so many people want to spend their retirement years near the sea.

To come up with a list of the best places to retire near the beach, we've researched coastal towns and cities in the U.S. and around the world.

Carlsbad, California

Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure

Located on the Pacific Coast in San Diego County, Carlsbad boasts mild weather year-round. The city, nicknamed “The Village by the Sea,” combines a small-town atmosphere, a walkable downtown, parks, restaurants, cafes, and locally owned shops all within convenient distance of San Diego (under an hour) and Los Angeles (about two hours). Niche notes the median home price in Carlsbad is about $1,070,500. According to Zillow , the average home price is $1,558,692. There’s a state income tax, but social security retirement benefits are not taxed. And yes, living on the California coast is costly, but retirees whose budget allows appreciate the beaches, scenery, weather, local events, and quality of life.

I’ve visited Carlsbad’s golf courses, beaches, restaurants, and annual Flower Fields, where locals bring picnics and pick strawberries during the season. Residents and tourists buy produce at the Wednesday farmers market, as well as attend festivals like Oktoberfest, Taste of Carlsbad, and the Spring Kaleidoscope art fair. Plus, Legoland is nearby for family visits, and Disneyland is just about an hour away.

Beaufort, South Carolina

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"Beaufort is an idyllic place to live for people of all ages, but especially retirees. Beaufort is known as the 'Queen of the Sea Islands,' and there's a special quality of life and code of conduct that [locals] live by that you don't find anywhere else,” travel journalist Michelle Gross, who has lived in Beaufort for several years, tells Travel + Leisure . “From the salt air and scenic marshes to embracing a slower pace of life, I'm convinced there's nowhere more beautiful to settle down than right here in Beaufort, South Carolina."

Beaufort offers history, cultural diversity, world-class restaurants, delicious seafood, and a variety of entertainment. With year-round mild weather, outdoor activities abound, including golf, hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. Niche reports the median home value in Beaufort is $312,900. There’s no estate tax in South Carolina, and residents 65 and older can deduct $10,000 of income from most retirement plans for state income tax purposes.

Falmouth, Maine

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Not everyone who wants to live near the ocean is seeking a tropical climate. Some retirees enjoy views of the sea along with distinct seasons — cold winters, warm summers, brisk autumns, and the return of spring each year. Maine is home to many lovely coastal towns , including Falmouth, which Niche calls “one of the best places to live in Maine.” According to Best Places , Falmouth “offers a charming downtown area with excellent shopping and dining opportunities” plus plenty of activities such as kayaking, fishing, and visiting National Historic Landmarks like the Wood Island Lighthouse.

Falmouth is located in southern Maine on the Atlantic Ocean and Casco Bay, and, as in many coastal communities, home prices here are high. Redfin ’s February 2024 data indicates a median home price of $1,175,000. Retirement communities like OceanView at Falmouth provide a range of living arrangements, and the town's website describes annual community events like summer concerts, a Memorial Day parade, and Very Merry Falmouth, with a tree lighting, fireworks, and an Ugly Sweater 5K run.

Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida

Located in northeast Florida, about 30 minutes from Jacksonville , Ponte Vedra Beach is a luxurious beach town with a range of places to live. “Ponte Vedra Beach is home to some of Florida’s most beautiful beaches and golf courses , minutes from high-end retail and restaurants,” says Ethan Loosen, who has been selling real estate throughout the area for eight years with Dream Finders Homes . “The northern part of Florida stays warm most of the year, while still experiencing the seasons during fall and winter.” 

Retirees who are planning an active lifestyle will appreciate the mild weather, golf courses, beaches, and opportunities for exploring the area. Nearby Jacksonville offers a major airport, restaurants, and nightlife. St. Augustine , America’s oldest city, is less than an hour away, and Orlando is about two hours by car. Home costs average $853,855 according to Zillow , and while prices are high, many retirees appreciate the fact that Florida has no state income tax. Health care is another plus, with a variety of hospitals nearby, including the Mayo Clinic.

Ambergris Caye, Belize

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Located in Central America, Belize comprises more than 400 islands, nearly 9,000 square miles of mainland, rain forests, jungles, mountains, and ancient Maya ruins. Retirees looking for a beach destination with swimming, snorkeling, fishing, sailing, and a tropical climate might enjoy making Ambergris Caye , the largest of the coastal islands, their home. As a tourist destination, the island is home to restaurants, shops, and some of the country’s most fascinating sites. Residents speak English, and the U.S. dollar is accepted, as is Belize currency.

Belize welcomes retirees, and the Belize Tourist Board has created initiatives, like the Qualified Retired Person Program , to facilitate visas for new residents who meet income and other requirements. The cost of living is about 35 percent lower than in the U.S., and rent is 77 percent lower. On a trip to Ambergris Caye, I met several retirees from both the U.S. and European countries. There’s a lively expat community here, and according to the couples I spoke with, they meet for dinners, beach parties, and excursions to the mainland and even the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico .

Quepos, Costa Rica

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With shores on the Caribbean and Pacific, Costa Rica provides plenty of options for retirees who want to live near the beach. The Central American country offers a few ways to become a resident , mainly based on minimum monthly income. The cost of living is reasonable, and health care is available through both public and private systems. According to International Living , “Aside from the Hospital Metropolitano clinic at the marina, there's a modern public hospital just outside of town.”

The harbor town of Quepos, known for sport fishing, has beaches, restaurants, a marina, and shops. Roughly 60 miles from San José, the location is convenient for local and international travel. Quepos is also the gateway to the popular Manuel Antonio National Park, where visitors enjoy hiking, wildlife spotting, and remote beaches.

During my own trip to Costa Rica, I was left with admiration for its people — friendly, sincere, and welcoming. With fishing, sandy shores, and lots of natural beauty, Quepos is ideal for retirees seeking beach living and Costa Rica’s pura vida .

Mazatlán, Mexico

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Located on Mexico’s mainland where the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez meet, Mazatlán features miles of beaches and a moderate climate. Restaurants, shops, parks, hotels, and entertainment venues offer much to do, on top of outdoor activities like boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking. The international airport is less than 30 minutes away, and there’s a ferry to La Paz in Baja. I spent some time in Mazatlán recently, and was impressed with the downtown area’s restaurants and parks. The seaside malecón , a four-mile promenade with monuments, food and souvenir vendors, and cliff divers, showcases beautiful views along with ocean breezes, making it a popular place to stroll day or evening. 

Mexico’s low cost of living is a big draw for retirees, and Mazatlán’s costs for rent and food are well below those of most U.S. cities. Mexico offers high-quality health care through private hospitals at low costs, and many retirees arrange private insurance or simply pay cash for services. If they meet minimum income and savings requirements, retirees can also apply for temporary (up to four years) or permanent residency, with applications processed through the Mexican consulate in their country of residence.

Nha Trang, Vietnam

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Located about 250 miles northeast of Ho Chi Minh City and nearly 800 miles south of Hanoi, Nha Trang is a coastal city with a beautiful beach and an established expat community of about 4,000 people . The average year-round temperature is approximately 81 degrees Fahrenheit, and there are wet and dry seasons. The latter runs from January through August, while monsoon season spans September to December. 

High-quality health care is available through several local hospitals, including Vinmec Nha Trang International Hospital, which has modern facilities and an English-speaking staff. Most retirees arrange private health care coverage. According to an article by Betsy Burlingame, founder and president of Expat Exchange , “Most international retirees in Nha Trang opt for apartments or condos in the city center, close to amenities and the beach. There are also options for houses in quieter, residential areas.” Burlingame describes Nha Trang as a walkable city with reliable public transportation, vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine, and abundant opportunities for recreation, from parks to hiking and boating.

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• 7 Coolest Towns in the Southern United States for a Summer Vacation in 2024

The American South , the land of hospitality, sweet tea, and beautiful landscapes to the Atlantic seascape, worships the sun. Home to pristine beaches, lush state parks, and national forests, the natural endowments are definitely the fantastic front-of-the-stage attractions. Holidaymakers and outdoorsy people flock to the South for the pleasant weather and the local welcome that feels like a home vibe.

Key Biscayne is minutes from Miami, but its tropical feel transports you further, like a real vacation. Gulf Shores is straight from your childhood dreams, with a famous waterpark and 32 miles of beaches with dolphin tours, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, and stunning sunsets. So, seek the seascape of the Gulf of Mexico or switch to mountain time in the first town this summer in 2024.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

The main street in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Image credit Dawid S Swierczek via Shutterstock

Home to under 4,000 people, this family-friendly town in the Blue Ridge Mountains is a not-so-secret adventure destination for hiking and biking in the fresh mountain air through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The less active can take a scenic drive along the Cades Cove Loop Road, while the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail splits off into trailheads to various waterfalls for a stunning, misty picnic in the summer. With big city attractions, it is no wonder that this tiny town was ranked among the nation's top by TravelUs News. Home to Gatlinburg Wild Bear Falls Water Park and Mountaintop Zipline for thrills, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! museum delights all ages.

The Hampton Inn is right by the famous Crockett's Breakfast Camp and the Ober Mountain Tramway Mall, art galleries, and a cool gem shop for everyone's browsing pleasures. It's hard to miss the 407-foot-tall Gatlinburg Space Needle from anywhere in town, near the notable Hollywood Star Cars Museum. Hit the Ole Smoky Distillery "the Holler" and unwind at the Sugarlands Distilling Company to see which you prefer. After all, moonshine tastings are an Appalachian tradition no matter the season and a sure way to warm up and unwind after wintertime skiing and tubing at Ober Mountain Adventure Park and Ski Area.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores, Alabama. Editorial credit: Mark Winfrey / Shutterstock.com

Weaving old-time charm and Southern hospitality into modernity and stunning nature on the Gulf Coast, this resort town is a top-of-the-bucket list item for beachgoers and those seeking excitement beyond the "Shores." Flaunting 32 miles of bright white beaches out of Alabama's 50-some miles, visitors can take a fishing charter, take off in a boat, or, if looking to relax, enjoy cruises, a dolphin tour, and stunning sunsets. The chill beach vibes encourage you to unplug, unwind, and bond with your loved ones, whether you are building sand castles, sunbathing, or swimming in the cooling yet warm waters that soothe your muscles after the nature trails at Gulf State Park just east.

From its own airport with international departures to Waterville USA/Escape House, this small town makes the world feel like your oyster. So welcome to the shrimping mecca of the state, where local cuisine is served fresh from the gulf with Southern flair, like the delicious menu at LuLu's Gulf Shores. Home to the Track, a family recreation center with bumper boats, and the infamous Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, there are also plentiful, affordable, family-friendly lodgings for every comfort and style of vacation, including camping and beachfront rentals. Find more serenity on the Jeff Friend Trail, Centennial Trail, and Pine Beach Trail, snaking around the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge along the peninsula to the west.

Hilton Head, South Carolina

Hilton Head, South Carolina: Lighthouse at dusk.

Ranked among the top small towns by Travel US News, Hilton Head Island is not your typical summer destination but attracts beachgoers, wildlife lovers, and foodies all the same. The Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, an all-star attraction for outdoor enthusiasts, is home to wildlife like wading birds, raptors, white-tailed deer, and even alligators sunning on the banks of the lagoons. For families and culture lovers, the Coastal Discovery Museum and the Sandbox Children's Museum have something for all ages. Don't skip dolphin-watching—some of the best around these open waters—aboard the friendly Zodiac rafts or golf, some of the best in the country.

From the Inn & Club at Harbour Town to the Sea Pines Resort and Harbour Town Sea Pines Condo, there's something for every style and budget, with access to the sun and the white sands all around for swimming or lounging in the warm southern surf of the beautiful Atlantic Ocean. So catch the ray and bask in the semi-remote feel of the barrier island, or scavenge for great food because the authentic Lowcountry boil is irresistible. Harbour Town, a private community, is worth the small fee to access great dining and shopping galore, while to escape further, the nearby Bloody Point Beach on the neighboring Daufuskie Island, home to the Iron Fish Gallery & Studio, feels like the edge of the world.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

Hot Springs, Arkansas: Town skyline from above at dawn.

Named the best waterfront town in the state by Southern Living, Hot Springs could be your ideal destination this summer in America's South. Living up to the hype as a larger small town with innumerable attractions, Hot Springs National Park takes center stage, encompassing an array of historic, naturally heated mineral springs and thermal baths. As the smallest and oldest of the parks in the National Park System, it was established on the grounds of 47 naturally flowing thermal springs in 1832 by Congress, 40 years before Yellowstone. The first federally protected area, Hot Springs Reservation, renamed in 1921, today offers free access to visit the springs on the southwestern slope of Hot Springs Mountain, while the historic Fordyce Bathhouse, on famous Bathhouse Row, is the park's visitor center.

Attracting everyone from sightseers to wellness seekers, history fans are tickled to learn, let alone soak in the springs like the former U.S. President Bill Clinton did, having spent his childhood years living in town. Beyond the springs, the family-friendly community is home to Oaklawn with thoroughbred racing and gaming, Magic Springs/Crystal Falls theme and water parks, as well as the 210-acre Garvan Woodland Gardens. Among plenty of art galleries, the Gangster Museum of America may be the most unique museum you've ever seen, while the Mid-America Science Museum is a winner of the 2016 National Medal for Library and Museum Service. Whether you're in for culture or the bubbling benefits, the historic row is thrumming with a nostalgic Romanesque feel, while Lake Ouachita, Lake Hamilton, Lake Catherine, and the Ouachita River are perfectly cooling under the summer sun.

Key Biscayne, Florida

Miami, Florida: Aerial view of Biscayne Bay and Miami skyline from Virginia Key.

Minutes from downtown Miami , there's no better place than Key Biscayne for a convenient escape, but abounding in attractions across the Rickenbacker Causeway, it is also a world-class beach vacation destination. Despite the busy feel in the summer, Key Biscayne inspires a tropical escape from the heated steel to a former coconut plantation with its lush parks, elegant seaside dining, and vacation rentals. Attracting out-of-state and globe-wide visitors wishing to experience the big city from a small beach town, this five-mile-long barrier island even offers the thought-after emote vibe along the picturesque beaches, like the dog-friendly Hobie Beach, aka the Windsurfer Beach.

From watersports to hiking, biking, fishing, and even boat camping, don't miss a tour of the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse. For dinner, the Rusty Pelican offers the best city panorama and a contemporary menu with Latin flare, while Costa Med Bistro + Wine is chic casual with European, Mediterranean, and South American influences. Just north of the isle, Virginia Key features the serene Beach Park, while Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park flaunts awe-inspiring sunrises. Spend a day at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Centre, a hit with families with interactive learning, and nothing delights the little ones like face-to-face with smiling dolphins at the Miami Seaquarium.

Murrells Inlet, South Carolina

Murrells Inlet, South Carolina: The MarshWalk, located in the historic fishing village. Editorial credit: Margaret.Wiktor / Shutterstock.com

Not just the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina ,” but an underrated beach destination tucked 14 miles south of busy Myrtle Beach, Murells Inlet is a hit for a relaxing summer vacation. Nestled along the Hammock Coast, the humble fishing town vibes to the ebb and flow of the ocean; its lifeline is a 360-degree change of pace and scenery from the city. The active can still enjoy water sports and join locals in fishing, or just let the pleasure waves wash over as they indulge in fresh seafood served any style at the local waterfront restaurants, like the best oysters at the Claw House’s raw bar.

One of the most significant public gardens in the Southeastern US, the 9,100-acre Brookgreen Gardens is a stunning blend of a botanical garden, sculpture park, and wildlife preserve for strolls and relaxation. Don't miss the extensive collection of American figurative sculptures for selfies with your favorite while nature lovers explore the garden's trails for diverse native flora and fauna like birds, butterflies, reptiles, and mammals. Afterward, Wicked Tuna’s “Hook to Plate” serves local seafood freshly caught by its own fishing fleet, while Woof Woof Wings pair great with drinks at the Dead Dog Saloon.

Tybee Island, Georgia

Aerial shot of Tybee Island, Georgia.

Tybee Island is another top-ten destination in the country, according to US Travel News, and is a small barrier island under 20 miles south of Savannah. The island's beaches offer captivating views along the dig-in-your-toes-worthy soft sands and the beckoning warm surf. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing before taking a tour of the nearby historic Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, the oldest and tallest in the Peach State , at sunset. From historic walking and bike tours around the island to surfing lessons and exploring the trails on your own two-wheeled friend, there's something for every curious, adventurous, and relaxation-minded traveler.

The island offers a unique opportunity to hunt for fossilized megalodon teeth during low tide, while the Tybee Beach Pier and Pavilion is great for a stroll against the oceanic backdrop. Visitors can join a dolphin-watching excursion or explore the spectacular Fort Pulaski National Monument grounds, which are excellent for photoshoots with picnic spots. The downtown, full of unique, historic architecture, features shopping and dining with waterfront views, like the carnival-themed Fannie’s on the Beach. Basking in the prevailing laid-back feel against the calmness of the Atlantic and balanced by the lively summertime atmosphere, this barrier island is the equation of a perfect vacation.

Discover the South's Best-Kept Secrets for a Summer Escape

Hot Springs, the recreational grounds of Little Bill Clinton, features the free-to-visit Hot Spring State Park, the smallest and oldest state park in the US, built around 47 natural springs bubbling with mineral benefits, as well as the historic Bathhouse Row with a Romanesque feel. From a mountain town to the Gulf Coast of Mexico and barrier islands, with chill vibes throughout, the warm South is undeniably a cool summer vacation base. The "Seafood Capital of South Carolina," Murrells Inlet, is home to the stunning Brookgreen Gardens with a sculpture park and trails through a wildlife preserve for strolls and relaxation, while Tybee Island sports the oldest and tallest lighthouse in the Peach State as well as the Fort Pulaski National Monument.

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USA TODAY 10Best

Experience the nostalgia of the open road at these 10 classic motels

Best Roadside Motel (2024) May 15, 2024

During the early years of the 20th century, Americans took to the nation’s brand-new highways, and roadside motels (a portmanteau of “motor hotel”) popped up to accommodate these travelers. Many of these historic properties have gotten retro-chic makeovers, blending their vintage charm with modern amenities. 

To find the best, an expert panel and USA TODAY 10Best editors selected their top picks, then our readers voted for their favorites. Here are the 10 best roadside motels in the United States.

No. 10: The Ozarker Lodge - Branson, Missouri

Surrounded by the Ozark Mountains, The Ozarker Lodge is reminiscent of mountain lodges from days gone by. The guest rooms come with such modern amenities as Bluetooth speakers, 50-inch HDTVs, and luxury toiletries. 

No. 9: Americana Motor Hotel - Flagstaff, Arizona

Located on iconic Route 66, the Americana Motor Hotel harks back to a time when road tripping was the way to travel. However, this property elevates the roadside motel to the next level with a year-round heated pool, fire pits and yard games, and a fenced-in "backyard" with dog wash station for your furry traveling companions. 

No. 8: The Starlite Motel - Kerhonkson, New York

Since the 1960s, the Starlite Motel has welcomed guests to the Catskills for a relaxing getaway. While the exterior still features direct guest room access from the parking lot typical of roadside motels, the interiors have been renovated to reflect a clean, modern aesthetic coupled with simple, yet comfortable furnishings.  

No. 7: Rhode's Motor Lodge - Boone, North Carolina

Not far from the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina's High Country, Rhode's Motor Lodge blends together the charm of a drive-up motor inn with the comfort of a mountain lodge, complete with scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Sit back and relax by the fire pit on the front porch, inside the lobby by the fireplace, or tucked away in your own guest room. 

No. 6: The Local - St. Augustine - St. Augustine, Florida

Owners Leila and Adam have restored this former Island Shores motel in St. Augustine to its heyday in the 1950s, added app-based self-check-in/check-out and keyless entry, and rechristened it The Local - St. Augustine. The non-smoking and air-conditioned rooms have a retro feel with coral and tropical themes, and each includes a refrigerator, microwave, safe, and high-speed Wi-Fi. 

No. 5: Bear Cove Inn - St Ignace, Michigan

At Bear Cove Inn, guests can "sleep under the trees" in the hotel's various themed rooms decorated with nature-inspired wallpaper, window curtains, bedding, and other decor items. For the ultimate "natural" escape, stay in the "Bear-Themed Cottage" outfitted with two recliners with heat and massage.  

No. 4: Roadrunner Lodge Motel - Tucumcari, New Mexico

The lovingly restored Roadrunner Lodge Motel on Route 66 blends mid-century style with modern conveniences, like premium mattresses, plush towels, and free Wi-Fi. This historic property is truly a mom and pop operation, and guests will get a sense of the care put into it during a stay.

No. 3: The Sunset Motel - Brevard, North Carolina

The Sunset Motel celebrates the allure of the open road by providing clean, comfortable rooms and friendly service to visiting guests. Amenities include free Wi-Fi and cable, plus chairs outside each door so guests can visit with their neighbors.

No. 2: Sugarloaf Mountain Motel - Virginia City, Nevada

Once a 19th-century brick-and-stone residence for miners, the Sugarloaf Mountain Motel now features 12 rooms with wood furniture and comfortable beds. The motel is just minutes from such attractions as the Mackay Mansion Museum, Washoe Club Museum & Saloon, and the Way It Was Museum. 

No. 1: The Groovy Nomad - Trenton, Georgia

A renovated 1959 roadside motel, The Groovy Nomad now features 10 themed rooms that will offer a fun and eclectic background for your next road trip. Try "Elvis' Jungle," inspired by the King of Rock 'n' Roll's Jungle Room at Graceland, let loose your inner flower child in "Flower Power," or tap into your '80s kid in "Pac-Man." 

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Chez chesak.

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Jacky Runice

Born in Bucktown when bulletproof was a home...   Read More

Born in Bucktown when bulletproof was a home safety choice and not a coffee order, Jacky Runice has been knocking around Chicago as a professional print, online and broadcast journalist and editor specializing in separating the riff from the raff in culture, entertainment, food, travel and pure unadulterated fun. Jacky is a member of the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). In her best Chicagoese, Jacky asks, "Who has the time or money to blow on hotels, attractions, restaurants, exhibits and activities that blow?"

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50...   Read More

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50 countries, many of them with her children in tow. She loves visiting everything from theme parks to ancient ruins and packs strictly carry-on-only. Jamie can be reached at [email protected].

Jenny Peters

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los...   Read More

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los Angeles-based freelance journalist, editor and party columnist specializing in travel, entertainment, film, food, wine, fashion and the other good things in life. She is a founding/voting member of the Critics Choice Association, who present the Critics’ Choice Awards every January. Her favorite places to be are on the beach in Southern California playing volleyball, scuba diving with the sharks in warm tropical waters or strolling the streets and soaking in the atmosphere of one of the world's great cities (New Orleans and Florence are her favorites).

Kyle McCarthy

Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of...   Read More

Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of Family Travel Forum, the trusted resource for family vacation planners since 1996. FTF’s award-winning publications: MyFamilyTravels.com , America’s Most Popular Family Vacations and  The Family Vacationist  e-newsletter  provide destination reviews, tips and  seasonal roundups  for all aspects of travel. Ms. McCarthy, author of a dozen Frommer’s guidebooks, also contributes to US News, CNN and other publications. She can be found on most social networks @familytravelforum.

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

Molly O'Brien

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance...   Read More

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance travel journalist, who writes and edits for a variety of international travel and lifestyle outlets including Fodor’s Travel, Travel + Leisure, and Business Insider among others. She's lived on both coasts from Massachusetts to California and has so far made Greater Boston, the San Francisco Bay Area, San Luis Obispo, Barcelona, and Los Angeles her home.  Molly earned her journalism degree at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast of California and since then has worked professionally in the fields of hospitality and travel PR and most recently, as a freelance travel writer and editor. Molly especially enjoys covering feature profiles about interesting people doing interesting things such as chocolate making, beekeeping, wing-walking, and interesting destinations like under-the-radar wine spots, the best brewery towns, and lesser-known ski destinations.  She also loves to write about a boutique hotel with a good story. When she's not writing, Molly enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new coffee shops and breweries, and of course, traveling.  Her favorite city in the world (so far) is Barcelona, Spain, but she loves traveling anywhere that offers sunny weather and ample hiking opportunities. She loves spending time in the mountains, enjoys connecting with nature through camping and glamping adventures, and is always up for learning about the world through fun, immersive experiences (and then sharing those stories!).  You can connect with Molly here:  Instagram: @metropolitanmolly Twitter: @Molly_A_OBrien Facebook: @MetropolitanMolly LinkedIn: @mollyannobrien www.metropolitanmolly.com

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival...   Read More

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival Guide  (being released May 25, 2021) and  the founder of 2TravelDads , the original LGBT Family Travel blog. Focusing on ecotourism and education, 2TravelDads inspires LGBT families (and traditional families also) to go beyond their usual getaways and use travel to learn about and be part of a bigger world. 2TravelDads blazes the way for other two-dad and two-mom families to travel to previously overlooked destinations or places we as gay people would normally avoid. We share the struggles we've faced and the surprising gems and welcomes we've had along the way. Traveling as a family is one thing, traveling as an LGBT family is completely something else.

Shea Peters

Shea Peters is a NYC based writer and frequent...   Read More

Shea Peters is a NYC based writer and frequent world traveler that looks to the history of a location in order to tell the story. Growing up in a Southern family that loves to travel, Shea has seen 44 of the 50 US states and believes that every place has a story worth telling, regardless of how populated or rural. She's currently a regular contributor discussing travel, culture, history, food, wellness, and business at Travel + Leisure, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, Oprah Daily, Women’s Health, TripAdvisor, Cosmo, and Revolt TV. When she's not traveling, rooting for some unlikable sports team, or taking a pilates class, you can find Shea in her rooftop garden that is currently flourishing above the streets of New York City. You can follow Shea on  Instagram  and  Twitter .

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

Best Bus Service

Best Budget-Friendly Hotel Brand

Best Fishing Lodge

Most Walkable City to Visit

Best Buffet Restaurant

Browse the best.

Best RV Campground (2024)

Best Vintage Trailer Hotel (2024)

Best Luxury RV Resort (2024)

Best Roadside Motel (2023)

Best Vintage Trailer Hotel (2023)

Back to readers' choice.

Cicada map 2024: See where to find Brood XIX and XIII − and where they've already been spotted

For many Americans, the cicadas are here .

Trillions of periodical cicadas are already emerging in a rare, two brood event across multiple states , with more expected to come in the following weeks. Thanks to warm temperatures and good conditions, these 13- or 17-year cicadas are emerging from their underground habitats to eat, mate and die, making a whole lot of noise in the process.

Broods XIX and XIII have not emerged together since 1803, and after this year, won't emerge together again until 2245. While they are largely in different states, they are both emerging in parts of Illinois and Iowa.

So if you've seen one cicada or hundreds of cicadas, here's where you can expect to see more this year.

Are cicadas dangerous? Busting myths on the harmfulness of the noisy pests.

Are cicadas already out in 2024?

Adult periodical cicadas from Brood XIX have been spotted by users in multiple states across the Southeast and Midwest including in Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia and Illinois, according to  Cicada Safari , a cicada tracking app developed by Mount St. Joseph University in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Through Cicada Safari, users can confirm their sightings of cicadas with pictures, look at a map of other cicada sightings, join a leaderboard with other users and learn more information about cicadas.

2024 cicada map: Check out where Broods XIII, XIX are projected to emerge

The two cicada broods are projected to emerge in a combined 17 states across the South and Midwest. They emerge once the soil eight inches underground reaches 64 degrees, expected to begin in many states in May and lasting through late June.

The two broods  last emerged together in 1803 , when Thomas Jefferson was president.

What is a brood?

According to the  University of Connecticut , broods are classified as "all periodical cicadas of the same life cycle type that emerge in a given year."

A brood of cicadas is made up of different species of the insect that have separate evolutionary histories. These species may have joined the brood at different times or from different sources. These different species are lumped together under the brood because they are in the same region and emerge on a common schedule.

Why do cicadas make so much noise?

You'll have to thank the male cicadas for all that screeching. Male cicadas synchronize their calls and produce congregational songs, according to  Britannica , which establish territory and attract females. There is also a courting call that they make before mating.

Unluckily for us, the 13-year and 17-year brood cicadas  are the loudest , partially because of the sheer number of them that emerge at once.